Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Alabama tree canopy, but a thundercloud (or cumulon-
imbus cloud) rises high into the atmosphere until it
can't rise anymore and forms what is called an “anvil,”
a flattening of the cloud. You are more likely to see a
cloud with a deep, dark bottom. A bad sign.
The best thing to do is get off the trail and seek shel-
ter. If that's impossible and you're caught in the middle,
quickly move to lower ground but away from water. If
you have a metal frame pack or walking stick, put it
down and leave it at least 100 feet away from you.
Reduce your strike potential by crouching down on
the balls of your feet, keeping them close together,
thus minimizing your connection to the ground. Be sure
to cover your ears. And if you are hiking with a group,
separate at least 20 feet apart from one another to
avoid the risk of a multiple-victim strike.
And remember, even if it's a bright and sunny day, if
you hear thunder the best bet is to cancel the hike for
the day and head home or to shelter. Lightning can
travel up to 10 miles, a real “bolt from the blue.”
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