What should you do when you hear thunder while outdoors?

DENVER (KDVR) — If you’ve spent time in Colorado, especially during the summertime, you have likely encountered a thunderstorm or two.

You may have even been outside when the thunder began to roar.

The general advice from experts is to go somewhere indoors when you hear thunder, with the popular phrase being, “When thunder roars, go indoors!“

Download the FOX31 App: Breaking news alerts & Pinpoint Weather

However, if you’re out hiking or recreating somewhere in Colorado’s vast wilderness, that might not always be a choice.

Rocky Mountain National Park recently shared tips on what to do when caught up in a storm while outdoors, including places where people should always avoid being during a thunderstorm.

How to stay safe while outside in a thunderstorm

One thing to know, according to RMNP, is that there are no fully safe options in the outdoors when lightning is involved.

However, there are some places outdoors that are downright dangerous when lightning strikes nearby.

RMNP said the following were the highest-risk locations during a thunderstorm:

• The top of a mountain

• Exposed open slopes (above the tree line)

• Caves or rock outcroppings on the side of a mountain

• Near open water

• The base of a tall tree

• Inside a tent in an exposed area

• Near rivers, streams and creeks as well as places with wet and boggy ground

RMNP said if possible people should stay indoors or in a vehicle. If you happen to be on a hiking trail, the best option is to get below the tree line and shelter either at the base of a cluster of low-elevation trees or in a lower-elevation dry ditch or gully.

RMNP said if you are inside your vehicle when a thunderstorm starts, you should stay in it.

If you feel tingly and your hair is standing on end, assume what is called the “lighting position,” which minimizes how much of your body is in contact with the ground.

If you have a backpack, you should sit or crouch on it to reduce direct contact with the ground, put your hands behind your head and bend forward.

You will have to stay in the position for between 20 and 30 minutes, sheltering for 30 minutes after the last thunderstrike you hear.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.