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Essential Thunderstorm Safety Guidelines for Athletes

June 18, 2026 · The Clime Team
Essential Thunderstorm Safety Guidelines for Athletes

Thunderstorms pose significant risks to athletes engaged in outdoor sports. Understanding and implementing safety protocols can prevent injuries and fatalities.

What Are the Risks of Thunderstorms for Athletes?

Thunderstorms can produce lightning, strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall, all of which can endanger athletes. Lightning strikes are particularly hazardous, with approximately 100 fatalities and up to 500 injuries occurring annually in the U.S. due to lightning strikes. (nysed.gov)

How Can Athletes Recognize Imminent Thunderstorms?

Athletes should be vigilant for signs of approaching thunderstorms, including:

  • Darkening Skies: Rapidly changing cloud formations.
  • Increasing Winds: Sudden gusts or shifts in wind direction.
  • Thunder and Lightning: The presence of thunder or lightning indicates immediate danger.

If any of these signs are observed, it's crucial to suspend activities and seek shelter immediately. (weather.gov)

What Are the Safety Protocols During Thunderstorms?

Implementing a lightning safety plan is essential for all outdoor sports activities. Key components include:

  • Monitoring Weather Conditions: Designate a person to actively monitor local weather forecasts and conditions before and during events.
  • Evacuation Plan: Establish clear procedures for evacuating athletes and spectators to safe locations upon detecting lightning or hearing thunder.
  • Safe Shelters: Identify and communicate the locations of safe shelters, such as substantial buildings with plumbing or electrical wiring, or vehicles with a hard metal roof and closed windows. (cdc.gov)

When Should Activities Be Suspended?

Activities should be suspended when:

  • Lightning is Visible: If lightning is seen, even without thunder, activities should cease immediately.
  • Thunder is Heard: If thunder is heard, the storm is close enough to pose a risk, and activities should be halted.
  • Severe Weather is Imminent: Signs such as darkening skies and increasing winds indicate the need to stop activities.

Once activities are suspended, individuals should move to the designated safe shelters. It's recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder or lightning before resuming activities. (weather.gov)

What Are the Safe and Unsafe Shelters During Thunderstorms?

Safe shelters include:

  • Substantial Buildings: Buildings with four solid walls, a roof, and plumbing or electrical wiring.
  • Vehicles: Cars, trucks, and buses with a hard metal roof and closed windows.

Unsafe shelters to avoid are:

  • Small, Covered Shelters: Such as rain shelters or picnic pavilions.
  • Dugouts and Bleachers: Open structures that do not provide adequate protection.
  • Open Fields: Avoid being the highest point in an open area.

Always move to a safe shelter at the first sign of a thunderstorm. (childrenscolorado.org)

How Can Athletes Protect Themselves During a Thunderstorm?

While seeking shelter, athletes should:

  • Avoid Water: Stay away from bodies of water, as water is a good conductor of electricity.
  • Stay Away from Electrical Appliances: Avoid using corded phones, computers, and other electrical devices.
  • Stay Away from Windows and Doors: Keep away from windows, doors, and porches.
  • Avoid Contact with Plumbing: Do not touch sinks, bathtubs, or other plumbing fixtures.

By adhering to these safety measures, athletes can significantly reduce the risk of injury during thunderstorms. (prod-01-alb-www-noaa.woc.noaa.gov)

Implementing a comprehensive lightning safety plan and staying informed about weather conditions are vital steps in ensuring the safety of all participants during outdoor sports activities.

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