Camping in thunderstorms - what you need to bear in mind

Fortunately, weather forecasts are now very accurate and thunderstorm warnings are usually issued early enough so that you can enjoy your camping holiday carefree. But what happens if a thunderstorm unexpectedly hits you? Camping in thunderstorms requires a few measures that you should put into practice as soon as possible.

We'll answer the most frequently asked question right up front and don't have any good news for you: Unfortunately, a tent does not offer you any protection from a lightning strike - regardless of whether you're travelling on a campsite or camping in the wilderness.

In addition to a lightning strike, there is also heavy rain, which can cause water to overflow onto the banks of a lake or river or soak the ground on which your tent is standing. You shouldn't underestimate hail either, just like strong winds.

Also look for an alternative in the roof tent** during **thunderstorms. Although you are safe from flooding here, the roof tent *protects* you just like a tent not from a lightning strike.

The same applies to caravans, as they often do not have a metal frame. A campervan, on the other hand, offers you protection thanks to its faraday cage. However, if you have a motorhome with a lifting roof, it does not have a metal frame. In this case, go into the driver's cab during the storm.

If the air becomes a little more pressing and dark clouds appear, this is a sign of an approaching thunderstorm, especially in the summer months. In addition, a sudden drop in temperature is often a bad sign. Depending on where you are, measures need to be taken now.

If you can already hear the rumble of thunder from a distance, it probably won't be too long before the storm reaches you. The rule of thumb: Count the seconds that pass between lightning and thunder and multiply the seconds by 340. If ten seconds pass, the thunderstorm is 3.4 km away.

If the thunderstorm is less than ten kilometres away, you should already try to get to safety and avoid dangerous areas - such as under a tree or a body of water. If you don't hear any thunder** for 30 minutes, the all-clear can be given. The thunderstorm is then considered overcome.

During a thunderstorm, heavy rain and strong wind are not uncommon. The tensioning of the tent is particularly important here and you should definitely check it again. Our step-by-step instructions for pitching the tent are helpful. Disconnect any cables - such as from a freezer box - from the electricity and remove taut lines for washing or sun sails from nearby trees. Pack the most important things you will need while the storm is moving over you. This includes warm clothing, a torch or camping lantern, your car keys or other valuables. A good option is to have a small bag ready to hand if the weather forecast is for thunderstorms.

The safest option is to leave the tent. This is usually not a problem, especially on an official campsite. Here you have sanitary facilities or other buildings that offer you protection and are equipped with lightning conductors. You will often find information on the correct behaviour during a thunderstorm at campsites.

In principle: You are very safe in a car during a thunderstorm due to the faraday cage. If you have the opportunity to reach your car in a short time, switch to it. It not only offers you protection from a lightning strike, but also from hail, extreme wind and heavy rain. Don't forget to close all doors and windows.

If you don't have any alternative options because you are wild camping, for example, we will give you tips on how to survive a thunderstorm safely. Here too, it is important to observe the weather and take precautionary measures.

You should already bear a possible thunderstorm in mind when choosing the location for your tent. Avoid unprotected spots on hills or other elevations. Make sure that your tent is not the highest point in an open area. However, do not place your tent directly next to the highest point. Avoid close proximity to trees. Always keep a safe distance - approximately at the height of the tree in case it tips over or loses branches in strong winds and thunderstorms.

Also, do not pitch your tent near shores of lakes or rivers, as these can overflow from heavy rain during a thunderstorm. It is also possible for lightning to be conducted over water. It is therefore also important not to choose the lowest point for your tent camp, as otherwise the water will flow into it.

It is important to securely guy the tent to protect it from strong winds.

If you have no other option and have to camp during thunderstorms, please observe the following behavioural measures. However, always try to find an alternative - the tent should be the last choice!

• Put metal objects such as hiking poles and cooking utensils far enough away from you - preferably outside in a waterproof bag.
• Stay in the centre of the tent and avoid contact with tent poles and walls, as well as other people.
• Do not sit or lie down. Squat down and wrap your arms around your legs. Your feet should be close together, just like your legs. If lightning strikes, it will be conducted across the ground. This position gives you the best protection because you have the least contact with the ground.
• Make sure that the ground you are standing on is dry - moisture can conduct the lightning.
• Keep calm and wait out the storm in the tent in this position.
  
  If you are travelling or have not yet pitched your tent, it is advisable to wait for the thunderstorm to pass before you start pitching your tent. In this case, try to find a shelter such as a hut, cave or rocky outcrop and get into the position described above. Keep your distance from rock faces and position yourself in the centre of a cave, for example. Similar, less dangerous places are hollows - i.e. lower points in the terrain that are not at risk of flooding. In any case, keep enough distance from other people, three metres if possible.
  
  

Camping in a thunderstorm** is unfortunately not safe, as a tent does not provide you with a Faraday cage. If a thunderstorm is approaching, switch to other options and secure your tent again as a precaution. If you are travelling in the wilderness, follow our tips for the best possible protection from a thunderstorm.