Lightning Strike risk in park on bike ride?

Z

Zoe K

New member
Can anyone help? On a recent bike ride in a large park, it began to storm. My friend who is very afriad of lightning was in front of me and decided to take shelter UNDER A LARGE LONE TREE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PARK!

At this point I told her that this was probably the biggest risk of lightning strike as it tends to hit lone, exposed high objects, but she didnt want to come out as she argued that being exposed in the open wheeling a metal framed object was as just as dangerous - this park is very large - no buildings about for a good ten minute walk from where we were.

Now then, I dont agree, I thought that under the tree is obviously the most dangerous, how about the rubber tyres on the bike would they serve as insulation? What would be the safest thing to do?
 
Well a tree is one of the worst places to hide as they have a tendency to explode when hit or burst into flames etc. You are still at risk on a metal bike. Apparently there is often a build up of static and buzzing before a strike is imminent,
if you feel your hair standing on end, and/or hear "crackling noises" - you are in lightning's electric field. If caught outside during close-in lightning, immediately remove metal objects (including baseball cap), place your feet together, duck your head, and crouch down low in baseball catcher's stance with hands on knees,so you have time to get off the bike and curl up in a ball on the ground as described to limit the damage.
 
I don't know for sure, but I would have gone along with you. I have to cycle every day and part of my journey involves crossing a park such as you describe.
 
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