Salt Lake City, Utah – Before you launch the boat or step into that cool mountain reservoir, take a moment to check the forecast — because in Utah, lightning can build quickly and strike even faster.
More than 60% of lightning fatalities happen during outdoor recreation, often during everyday activities like boating, fishing and swimming. In Utah, the risk increases in late spring and peaks during the summer months when afternoon thunderstorms develop over mountains and drift into valleys.
Here’s what catches many people off guard: lightning can strike miles away from the heaviest rain. Blue sky overhead does not mean a storm isn’t nearby. In higher elevations, storms can form rapidly with little warning. If you can hear thunder, you are already within striking distance.
Open water increases vulnerability. Popular destinations such as Lake Powell, Bear Lake, Jordanelle Reservoir and Utah Lake draw heavy seasonal crowds. Fishing rods, aluminum boats, docks and exposed shorelines offer little protection, and a direct strike can cause serious injury or disable onboard electronics.
Safety officials emphasize a simple rule: at the first sound of thunder, leave the water immediately and move to a fully enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle. Pavilions, rock overhangs and trees do not provide safe protection.
For students, seasonal workers and summer visitors, peak recreation season also aligns with peak lightning danger.
Checking the forecast before heading out — and being willing to delay plans — can prevent a routine Utah outing from turning into an emergency.
