Burlington, Vt. – Before you push off from the dock or wade into the water, check the forecast — because lightning doesn’t wait for heavy rain to begin.
More than 60% of lightning fatalities happen during outdoor recreation, often during everyday activities like fishing, boating and swimming. In Vermont, the risk increases through late spring and peaks during the summer months when pop-up afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent.
Here’s the part that surprises people: lightning can strike miles away from a storm. Skies may look partly clear overhead while a storm builds nearby. If you can hear thunder, you’re already within striking distance.
Open water increases vulnerability. Popular destinations such as Lake Champlain, Lake Bomoseen and Willoughby Lake draw heavy visitor traffic once temperatures rise. Boats, fishing rods and exposed shorelines offer little protection, and a 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 inside a fully enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle. Docks, pavilions and trees do not provide adequate shelter.
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 keep a relaxing day on the water from turning into an emergency.
