JACKSON, Wyo — Sunday’s thunder, lightning, wind, and hail event, was a good reminder of how quickly storms can escalate here in the Tetons. Thunderstorms are most common during the summer months and can produce numerous hazards including large hail, high winds, lightning, and heavy rain.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Data, lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities in the United States. Sixty-four percent of lightning fatalities result from outdoor recreation.
A few things to be mindful of when adventuring in the summer
- Suspend your trip for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder is heard.
- A thunderstorm “watch” means be prepared – severe thunderstorms are possible.
- A “warning” means take action – severe weather has been reported, and there is imminent danger to life or property.
Be sure to prepare your house to withstand the effects of damaging wind and large hail. Keep trees and branches near your house trimmed. If you have time before severe weather hits, secure loose objects, and close windows and doors.
Remember that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to get struck be lightning, and should take the following precautions.
- Get inside a substantial building as soon as possible and avoid concrete walls and floors because lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
- If you cannot get inside a building, get inside a hard-top vehicle with the windows rolled up.
If you are not near a building or a vehicle:
- Stay away from tall trees and do not stand near tree roots
- If you are on a ridge or peak, get down if possible.
- Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity, like barbed wire fences and power lines
Thunder and lightning safety is this month’s theme for Teton County Emergency Management Preparedness Calendar. The entire calender is available online here.
