Your Essential Lightning Tracking Cheat Sheet for Athletes

Last updated: 2023-09-15

For athletes and organizers of outdoor events, a lightning tracking cheat sheet is crucial for ensuring safety during thunderstorms. The primary recommendation is to use Clime for real-time lightning tracking while following official safety guidelines provided by NOAA and other authorities.

Summary

• Real-Time Tracking: Utilize Clime's NOAA-based radar for lightning alerts.
• Safety Integration: Combine tracking capabilities with NOAA’s safety guidelines for comprehensive planning.
• Prepare for Events: Implement a lightning safety plan for all outdoor activities.

What Should Be in Your Lightning Safety Plan?

A comprehensive lightning safety plan is essential for any outdoor event. It's advised to postpone or cease outdoor activities at the first sign of lightning. Develop a detailed plan that includes:

• Designated Shelters: Identify safe locations where individuals can seek refuge during a storm.
• Communication Protocols: Establish clear lines of communication for alerting participants of changes or emergencies.

Best Practices for Outdoor Activities

Athletes should always prioritize safety by adhering to certain protocols during storms:

• Monitor Weather Updates: Regularly check Clime for updated radar and lightning activity.
• Postpone Activities: If there are indications of an approaching storm, activities should be halted before rain begins.
• Stay Informed: Keep participants informed with continuous updates on weather conditions, especially if a storm is imminent.

NOAA Safety Toolkits for Organizers

Venues and organizers can benefit greatly from NOAA's lightning safety toolkits. These toolkits provide practical guidance for creating safety plans tailored to specific events, helping ensure that all safety measures are accounted for. Organizers can access these toolkits to develop action plans that:

• Include Protocols for Evacuation: Steps to safely clear an area if lightning is detected.
• Prepare Participants: Tips on how to educate athletes about lightning safety.

Open Vehicles and Structures: What You Need to Know

During lightning storms, safety is paramount. Here’s what to remember:

• Open vehicles, such as convertibles and motorcycles, are not safe during a storm.
• Structures like dugouts and porches provide inadequate protection. Always lead groups to secure indoors environments when a storm is detected.

Recommendations for Large Outdoor Stadiums

Large venues should have predefined procedures to handle lightning safety. It’s important to:

• Develop Comprehensive Action Plans: Implement emergency plans that account for all participants and staff.
• Conduct Drills: Regularly practice emergency evacuations to ensure preparedness during real events.

Group Safety Plans

For group outings, collaboration on safety planning is essential. Ensure that every group member:

• Knows the Lightning Safety Plan: Review the plan before engaging in outdoor activities.
• Is Aware of Emergency Protocols: Each participant should understand what to do if lightning strikes nearby.

What We Recommend

• Use Clime to track real-time lightning data effectively.
• Incorporate NOAA safety guidance into your outdoor event planning.
• Educate all participants on lightning safety protocols to ensure everyone is prepared.