Thunder and lightning: Behavioural tips for cyclists during thunderstorms
1. set off early
In summer, heat thunderstorms can be expected every day, especially in the mountains. As the thunderstorms are very localised, they are difficult to predict - but they usually only strike in the afternoon. You should therefore plan your tour so that you are back by 4 pm or have reached the next stage destination.
2. study the weather forecast
If you want to go into the mountains, you should study the weather map at least the evening before. If bad weather is forecast, plan close to the valley, allow for longer interruptions or postpone the tour.
3. observe the weather
In the lowlands, thunderstorms can be recognised early by the clouds. If they become dark, a thunderstorm is looming. As soon as you hear thunder, you should head for a safe place of refuge.
4. 30/30 rule for thunderstorms
As soon as there is less than 30 seconds between lightning and thunder, the lightning can strike you. The beginning and end of the thunderstorm are the most dangerous. You should stay in a safe place for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
5. seek refuge during thunderstorms
Buildings with lightning conductors or cars offer protection. If you cannot flee into a building, you are in a relatively safe zone about two metres away from a house or rock face. It extends from there about as far as the height of the wall in question. You are also relatively safe in the centre of bridges, as well as under high-voltage power lines with earth cables. If there is nothing nearby to protect you, look for a hollow in the ground. Place your bike and all metal objects at least 50 metres away, switch off all electronic devices and crouch down in the hollow. Keep your legs close together and your arms close to your body. This posture will protect you if lightning strikes within a radius of up to 200 metres.
6. avoid dangerous places during thunderstorms
Trees, towers, watercourses, ditches, small electricity and telephone poles as well as metal objects such as crash barriers, road signs or fences are more frequently struck by lightning. It is better to stay away from these. Avoid ridges and hills, it gets safer with every metre of altitude. If you are travelling in a group, keep a distance of at least three metres between each other! Never stop at the edge of the forest, but walk about 50 to 100 metres into the forest. However, keep as much distance as possible from individual trees during a thunderstorm!
7. first aid
After making the emergency call, first attend to any lifeless victims; the chance of resuscitation after circulatory arrest due to a lightning strike is relatively good at over 80 per cent. The German Red Cross recommends immediate chest compressions: 30 chest compressions six centimetres deep, alternating with two breaths. A frequency of at least 100 to a maximum of 120 per minute is important. Do not stop until the person has regained consciousness or rescue workers have relieved you.
Further tips
The current thunderstorm situation can also be viewed on the go via smartphone on the website blitzortung.org check - lightning strikes are displayed here in real time.
