Cycling and thunderstorm: the combination that should keep you on your toes

The most effective way is always prevention.

The late summer months are very conducive to electric storms And, although the phrase "be struck by lightning" seems like a legend to us, the truth is that it is a reality and this situation, although remote, exists.

From Triathlon News we want to give you some tips to avoid this risk based on what the  DGT

How to avoid a thunderstorm?

The most effective way is always prevention. Before going out on a bike we must check the weather forecast, and if there is a risk, better "roller" for this day.

Even reviewing it, it is possible that the sky suddenly darkens and discharges a lot of water in a short time, for this situation we must be forewarned.

What to do if I am surprised by a thunderstorm while training?

We give you 3 basic tips to keep you safe:

Find the right place:

If you "see it coming" and you have the possibility of approaching an urban area, try to reach it.

The tall buildings act as lightning rods so it is best to take refuge in a building since in rural areas you are more likely to be struck by lightning.

It is also recommended evitar high placessummit, top or hill), better in low areas, but not prone to flooding with water and open and clear land such as meadows, crops ... since we protrude a lot from the ground and we can become a lightning rod.

Es preferable to stay under a group of trees and if possible the lowest in the area.

Also do not take refuge in isolated buildings, such as barns, sheds or huts, even tents, not in caves or rock ledges, unless they are deep and wide (minimum one meter on each side)

Lightning striking the middle of the field
Lightning striking the middle of the field

Stay away from any metallic element

Frame backpacks, tools, turn off your electronic devices such as mobile, GPS or odometer and get away from the bike.

Even if your bike is made of aluminum and / or carbon it can also attract lightning, a minimum of 30 meters, and do not run to leave it or your return and less with wet clothes, this is very dangerous since turbulence is created in the air and the convection zone that can attract the lightning.

Nor that you stay near fences, barbed wire, pipes, telephone lines, electrical installations, railroad rails.

The most dangerous thing about a power line are its supports, because by its ground connection the rays that have fallen even for kilometers are discharged to the ground.

Isolate yourself:

Water is a very good conductor of electricity, so it is advisable to isolate yourself from the ground and from contact with wet areas. Don't cross streams or anything like that.

What is the safest position to avoid being struck by lightning?

The safest position is squatting, as low as possible with the hands on the knees and touching the ground only with the shoes, in this way we will not stand out from the ground.

Never lie flat on the ground, since you will not have an isolation point.

If you notice a tickle on your body, your hair stands on end, or you see a metal object sparkle or sparkle, go to a safe position immediately, as the lightning strike is imminent.

If you go in a group, it is recommended scatter a few meters and adopt this position, even if you see herds or groups of mammals.

Do you have the vehicle nearby?

Do not think about it, entra, close it and turn off the engine, Lower the radio antenna and disconnect it, as well as the air intakes. If lightning struck him it would only be from the outside and the inside would remain intact.

Avoid touching the metal parts of the vehicle And if you've arrived in time before the storm starts and you decide to move away, don't forget to slow down and try not to stop in areas where a large amount of water can flow.

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