Weathering a downpour during a day hike with kids

Rainstorms, especially those with lightning, can be dangerous. Avoid them by immediately returning to your vehicle once storm clouds form, lightning is spotted, or thunder is heard. You want everyone to stay dry, especially if you’re carrying an infant or toddler.

Clouds do not necessarily mean rain. Storms are brewing when clouds darken and rise vertically into an anvil shape.

If caught in heavy rain, put on a poncho, head for a low spot or thinly wooded area, and stay low until it passes. Stay away from high ground, depressions where puddles can form, and trees or other tall objects that attract lightning. Never stand in a dry riverbed or wash during a thunderstorm. Floodwater could crash toward you and easily sweep away smaller children.

Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.

How to avoid lightning when day hiking

To avoid lightning, get away from the places it is most likely
to strike. Photo courtesy of NOAA.

Lightning provides a spectacular show for free, but it’s also potentially quite deadly.

Once you hear thunder, lightning is not far off. Thunder is the traveling ripple caused by lightning’s shock wave as it darts through the sky.

Rain need not be falling for lightning to hit you. An electrical storm is a major cause of lightning strikes.

To avoid lightning, you want to get away from places where it is most likely to strike: above the tree line on mountains; the mouth of a cave; a solitary tree; depressions; and ledges or wet ground.

If on a mountain, immediately descend to below the tree line. A thick tree grove is the best form of natural shelter. Remove metal from your body and sit on your backpack to keep you separated from the ground. Crouch as low as you can, shielding your head with your arms.

Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.