Here’s how to reduce your lightning risk if you’re in Colorado’s backcountry with no shelter nearby

['Olivia Prentzel', 'More Olivia Prentzel', 'General Assignment Reporter', '.Wp-Block-Co-Authors-Plus-Coauthors.Is-Layout-Flow', 'Class', 'Wp-Block-Co-Authors-Plus', 'Display Inline', '.Wp-Block-Co-Authors-Plus-Avatar', 'Where Img', 'Height Auto Max-Width'] The Colorado Sun 2025-09-23 00:00:00

But if you’re in Colorado’s backcountry, with no shelter nearby, there are some steps you can take to minimize your risk. The state, known for its unpredictable electrical storms, is third-highest in the nation for lightning deaths, according to data provided by the National Lightning Safety Council. “Keep in mind that many lightning victims were seeking safety when they were struck,” John Jensenius, a lightning safety specialist with the council, said in a recorded safety video. Lightning can strike 10 miles from the area where it is raining in a thunderstorm, according to the safety council. Instead of crouching to the ground in a ball, experts say running to lower ground should be a priority to decrease your lightning risk.