Lightning.  An electrical discharge that reaches 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit; that’s 4 times as hot as the surface of the sun!

Florida.  So called “Lightning Capital of the World”.  Even though Florida is not actually #1 when it comes to lightning strikes, the Sunshine State does get quite a lot of activity.  What to do when caught outside or along the Florida Trail during a thunderstorm?  Here are some tips for surviving this certainly scaring and potentially dangerous natural phenomenon. 

How far away is the lightning? 

When you see the lightning, count the number of seconds until you hear thunder, then divide by 5 to know how many miles away the lightning is.  This is possible since light travels faster than sound.  Sound travels at 1,100 feet per second.  If the lightning is closer than 30 seconds, it’s time to get to safety.

How do I get to safety in the outdoors? 

No matter what type of area you are in, assume the lightning position, as described by NOLS – “squat or sit, ball up, put feet together, wrap arms around legs”.  If possible assume this position on a pack or a foam pad.  Avoid packs with metal frames.  Don’t touch any metal objects.  If in a group, spread out 50 feet apart, as best as possible.  The inside of a tent may not be good since if camped in a field the tent may be the highest point, and the tent may have metal poles to conduct electricity, and create indirect energy also known as “current streamers”. 

Do NOT take cover under a tree.  Lightning will most likely hit a high point in the area, and being too close to that point (like an isolated tree), the discharge spreads out, and you may be hit by the current streamers.  Do your best in the middle of a forest to be equal-distant from the trees in the area.

What do I do if someone is struck by lightning?

After the storm has passed, if someone is struck, medical attention may be required.  Only provide medical attention to the level that you are trained.  Lightning can injure in three ways:  electrical shock, secondary heat production, and Explosive force. The electrical shock may stop the cardiac and respiratory functions of the body.  Administer CPR.  Burns may occur from the secondary heat production.  If trained, treat for burns by cooling and cleaning the burns, use non-stick bandages, and then evacuate.  Finally, there is a potential that the body has suffered trauma (such as fractured bones from muscle spasms or explosive injuries.  Such injuries require advanced medical training. 

Summer is hurricane season, and hiking season, in the “Lightning Capital of the World”.  Stay safe, be attentive, and be prepared.  A little planning before heading out can make a big difference.

Dave Rohe, Wilderness First Responder