Mountains fascinate with their majesty and beauty, but they can also be unpredictable and dangerous. One of the biggest threats you can face during mountain hiking is a storm. Read this text to find out, what to do when a storm catches you on the trail and how to prepare for changing weather conditions to minimize the risk of encountering a storm in the mountains.
First, a bit of meteorological theory. A thunderstorm is a fascinating but dangerous atmospheric phenomenon that can surprise you during mountain hikes. It is formed in storm clouds, called cumulonimbus. These huge clouds form when warm, moist air rises rapidly upwards, meeting colder layers of the atmosphere. This is the moment when you can observe fast-growing, twisted turrets with a distinct vertical extension – a sign that the atmosphere is unstable and a storm may develop. In the mountains, this process is particularly intense due to the terrain – steep slopes force vertical movement of air masses.
During the process of condensation and the formation of cloud droplets, huge amounts of energy are released. This allows the air to continue to rise and the cumulus cloud to expand vertically, often to a height of several, and on summer days even a dozen or so kilometers. When the upper part of the cloud takes on a characteristic shape fibrous anvil or mushroom, this means that the Cumulus has transformed into a stormy Cumulonimbus.
In a storm cloud, the phenomenon of separation of electric charges occurs. The upper part of the cloud accumulates positive charges, while the lower part - negative. When the potential difference between these areas becomes too great, a sudden electrical discharge occurs, which we observe as lightning. The thunder that accompanies it is nothing more than a sound wave, created as a result of the lightning rapidly heating the air.
In the mountains this whole process can be extremely dynamic. A storm can develop "out of nowhere", surprising even experienced hikers. That is why it is so important to always be alert during mountain hikes and observe the changes taking place in the sky.
A storm in the mountains is not only a spectacular spectacle, but above all a real threat to the lives and health of tourists. Why?
If we were to treat this question as binary, the best answer would probably be – don’t go to the mountains. But of course, you’re not here to discourage yourself from mountain hiking. Nevertheless, when deciding to go to the mountains, you should be aware that you have no influence on the weather. However, you can prepare yourself for its whims. How? What to do to avoid being caught in a storm on the way to the top? We have a few tips!
Always check the weather forecast before heading out into the mountains. Just because the sky is clear in the morning doesn’t mean you won’t encounter a cloudburst a few hours and miles up the mountain. The best way to plan your hike with weather changes in mind is to use reliable sources and forecasts, such as:
Don't limit yourself to checking it once - monitor the forecast several times, using different sources: when planning your trip, the day before you leave and the morning of your trip, as well as during your hike.
An early start is essential for a safe mountain hike. A storm in the mountains usually forms in the afternoon. If you set off at dawn, you will reduce the risk of encountering lightning strikes on your trail, you will avoid crowds on popular routes, and what is especially important, you will gain more time to reach your destination safely, and possibly return or descending to the nearest place of refuge in the event of difficult conditions.
When choosing the destination of your hike, consider:
Try to plan your route so that you can cover the most exposed sections (e.g. ridges, peaks) in the first part of the day. Apps such as Mapa Turystyczna (which works as an overlay on Google Maps) or Mapy.cz with the option of downloading offline maps can be useful for planning mountain hikes.
As you hike, keep an eye on the sky. Look up and pay attention to warning signs such as:
If you notice any of these signs, consider turning around or going down to the nearest safe place.
Despite the best preparations, it can happen that a storm surprises you on the trail. What to do in the mountains during a storm? In such a situation, the most important thing is to keep cool and take appropriate actions:
If a storm catches you on a ridge or summit, start descending immediately. Head for lower ground, but remember to be careful – wet rocks are very slippery.
A lone tree is a dangerous place during a storm. As are metal elements of tourist infrastructure, such as chains or ladders. Keep a safe distance from them during a storm, because they can conduct electricity.
Turn off your phone and other electronic devices. Put them deep in your backpack, preferably in a waterproof bag.
If you can't safely continue your descent, adopt a position that minimizes the risk of shock. Crouch on the ground with your feet together, your hands on your knees, and your head toward your chest. If you have a backpack with a metal frame, set it aside.
Are you hiking in a group and a storm catches you on the trail? Spread out. Keep a distance of a few meters between you so that in the event of a lightning strike, the number of people injured is minimized. This way, if you need to call or provide help, there will simply be someone to do it.
The best places to wait out a storm in the mountains are:
Remember that none of these places guarantee 100% safety. The most important thing is to stay calm and follow the rules of safe behavior during a storm.
In an emergency situation in the mountains, it is crucial to quickly call for help. The most important emergency numbers are:
It is also worth installing the Rescue application or Alarm112, which facilitate the location of the injured person.
Remember! Before heading to the mountains, inform your loved ones about your planned route and estimated time of return.
Remember that mountains, although beautiful, can be unpredictable. Respect the forces of nature and always put your safety and the safety of your companions on the summit first. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy mountain hiking while minimizing the risks associated with storms and other hazards.
Safe travels!
