A common misconception is that lightning is dangerous only where rain is falling. NOAA says it can strike more than 10 miles — about 16 kilometres — away from rainfall. These discharges are sometimes called “bolts from the blue” because they can travel sideways from a storm cloud and reach a place where rain has not yet begun.
Thunder is the practical warning that should never be ignored. If you can hear it, you are close enough to the storm to be at risk. NOAA advises moving immediately into a substantial building or a fully enclosed, hard-topped vehicle; a tree, an open shelter or a tent is not safe protection.
The risk can continue after the rain stops. A simple rule is to wait at least 30 minutes after the final clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activity. This reduces the chance of going back outside during the storm's closing stage, when distant strikes may still occur.
Morning takeaway: before an outdoor activity, check the forecast and identify a safe shelter in advance. If you hear thunder, do not wait for rain to begin — go indoors.
