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Thunderstorms in the mountains: how to plan a hike so lightning does not catch you

Mountain storms: plan your hike: a practical guide

⏱ 2 min read

Forecast, early start, turnaround time. A guide based on official advice. The same text is in the free SurvivalZone.app and works without internet.

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Summer storms in the mountains build quickly, often in the early afternoon. On an exposed ridge, far from a hut, there is nowhere to hide.

So safety on the trail starts with a plan: when to start, which way to go and when to turn back.

Forecast before you go

  1. Check the mountain forecast, not the one for the town in the valley, and any advice from the local mountain rescue. If storms are forecast, choose a shorter route through forest or postpone the hike.

Start early

  1. In summer, mountain storms usually form in the afternoon. Plan the route so you pass the highest and most exposed places before noon. Set a turnaround time and stick to it, even if the summit is close.

Warning signs

  1. Fast-growing, towering clouds and a darkening sky.
  2. Thunder: if you can hear thunder, you are within reach of lightning.
  3. Buzzing or crackling metal, hair standing on end: get lower at once.

On the route

  1. Avoid ridges, summits, lone trees and fixed chains. If a storm catches you, get as low as you can, move away from metal and crouch on your rucksack or sleeping mat with your feet together. In a group, spread out a few metres apart.

Leave a plan

  1. Save your route and return time in the trip planner in SurvivalZone.app and tell someone at home. Save the mountain rescue number for the area as well as 112.

Checklist

  1. Mountain forecast and rescue service advice
  2. An early start
  3. A turnaround time
  4. No ridges when storms are forecast
  5. Rain jacket and a warm layer
  6. Plan left with someone at home
  7. Mountain rescue number and 112

See also

Frequently asked questions

When do thunderstorms happen in the mountains?

In summer usually in the afternoon. That is why people start early and leave exposed places before noon.

What should I do if a storm catches me on a ridge?

Get as low as possible, move away from metal and chains, and crouch on your rucksack with feet together. A group should spread out.

Can lightning strike if the storm seems far away?

Yes. If you can hear thunder, you are within reach of lightning.

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Sources

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-11-04.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.