Concord, N.H. – Before you head out on the lake, take 30 seconds to check the forecast — because lightning doesn’t need heavy rain to become dangerous.
More than 60% of lightning fatalities happen during outdoor recreation, often during everyday activities like boating, fishing and swimming. In New Hampshire, the risk increases in late spring and peaks in summer, when pop-up afternoon thunderstorms become more common.
Here’s what catches many people off guard: lightning can strike miles away from a storm. It doesn’t have to be raining overhead. If you can hear thunder, you’re already close enough to be struck.
Open water offers no protection. Popular destinations such as Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake and Newfound Lake draw heavy seasonal traffic, placing more people outdoors when storms develop quickly. Fishing rods, boat rails and exposed shorelines can increase vulnerability, and a strike can disable electronics or cause serious injury.
Safety officials emphasize a simple rule: at the first sound of thunder, leave the water immediately and move inside a fully enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle. Docks, open shelters and trees do not provide adequate protection.
For students, seasonal workers and summer visitors, peak recreation season also aligns with peak lightning danger.
Checking the forecast before leaving — and being willing to delay plans — can prevent a relaxing day on the water from turning into an emergency.
