Never ignore the rumble of thunder. Lightning is one of nature’s most unpredictable forces. While only about 10% of people struck by lightning die, the majority live with lasting disabilities. In South Africa, outdoor lifestyles and summer storms mean lightning safety is crucial.
I’ve faced that fear more than once. It is something I will never forget.
Caught in a storm in Mountain Zebra National Park
I have landed in situations where I unwillingly tested this theory, and I don’t think I was ever as scared. It was not on purpose, and there was no warning ahead of the lightning, just showing how unpredictable Mother Nature can be.
The first story takes place in the Mountain Zebra National Park near Cradock in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Taryn, the editor of the SANParks Times at the time, and I were on a work trip. It was a partly cloudy afternoon. We decided to go hiking on the Black Eagle Trail in the rest camp. This 2.5km trail meanders to the top of a rocky outcrop with spectacular views of the park. Our goal was to try and take some sunset photos, and someone suggested this viewpoint as a good vantage point.
Everything was going according to plan. We captured some beautiful images from what we thought was the highest point of the trail. Then we heard a faint rumble in the distance.
We first thought it was an aeroplane. It was cloudy, but we did not think there was a lightning danger. But the situation changed as we continued walking. Minutes later, the sky cracked with light and sound. We were trapped on an exposed koppie, the highest point around. We had to get off the koppie, fast! We honestly did not even see it coming.
I always wondered how trail runners run at speed in rocky environments without injury. To me, it doesn’t make sense to run in such conditions. I always walk slower and take the utmost care while walking down mountains, especially as I have hurt my ankle on a few occasions before. However, with the adrenaline pumping and lightning strikes around us at this high vantage point, there weren’t many options but to run down the mountain back to the rest camp as fast as we could. Being so high up on a rocky outcrop made us the perfect targets for a lightning strike.
We ran downhill as fast as we could and probably used more foul language in that short period than we did in an entire year as the lightning intensified. Thoughts flashed through my head, from the love of my life to all the things I still wanted to do with my life. I wanted to survive.
We were lucky. We made it into our chalet as another loud bolt struck and hit something nearby. The rain started falling, and we were just happy to be alive. Nature is unpredictable, but it is important to be safe when lightning is about.
Lightning in the Kruger National Park
On another occasion, on a wilderness hike in the Kruger National Park, lightning also posed a threat. We camped in tents in the middle of the park, and a storm was approaching from afar. Early that morning, during the thunderstorm, we had to move camp as our tents were in an unsuitable location, and the heavy rain caused flooding. We had to move to a higher point while lightning was striking around us.
Looking back, I realise how risky that was. Adrenaline kept us moving, but we were lucky. The lesson? When lightning strikes, it’s always better to pause, assess, and protect yourself before continuing any activity.
Lightning safety tips for South Africa
We do not always plan to be out in the open in the event of lightning. Knowing how to act when lightning strikes or when a storm is approaching can save your life. Here are a few tips that might save your life in the case of lightning or a thunderstorm, whether outside or at home.
- When you see lightning, count to 30. If you hear the roar of thunder before you get to 30, go inside immediately. It is not safe to hide under an open tent or a tree. It is not safe to be on top of a mountain either, so move to a lower vantage point immediately.
- If there is no shelter, crouch down as low as possible, with as little of your body touching the ground as possible. Never lie down. Lightning can travel on the ground and does not have to hit you directly to cause damage.
- Avoid any tall structures when there is lightning. No lone trees, telephone poles, fences, antennas, or flagpoles. All of these can act as a lightning rod. If possible, also avoid concrete floors and walls. Steel often enforces concrete.
- There are always suggestions to stay away from windows during lightning. There isn’t an increased chance of lightning hitting you, but the glass can shatter and send pieces in all directions.
- Avoid using electronic equipment during thunderstorms and avoid bathing or showering during a lightning storm. Water is a great conductor of electricity and could shock you if a bolt of lightning were to hit your house.
- Stay inside at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound.
Read a few myths and facts about lightning here. Also, find out why you need to visit Mountain Zebra National Park. Want to go on a wilderness hike in the Kruger National Park? Read about my Lonely Bull Trail experience here.
Have you ever had a scary experience with lightning? Share yours by leaving a reply below. Like this article? Share it on social media.
