Unpredictable summer forecast requires knowledge of storm hazzards

By KIM SMITH DEDAM

LAKE PLACID -- Hail, a heavy downpour and lightning can turn a nice mountain hike into a muddy ordeal.

Days have been full of pop-up Adirondack thunderstorms this summer.

Temperatures drop, mud holes erupt, and rocks become tricky climbing planes.

If telltale cauliflower-shaped clouds lean toward a summit with only a short 1,200 feet to go and thunder cracks, what do you do?

Outdoor educator Thea Moruzzi says the best course is down.

"Stay low, and stay on a trail that doesn't summit to reduce the risk of being caught in a dangerous spot in a lightning storm."

LIGHTNING TARGETS

Moruzzi, education director for the Adirondack Mountain Club based at the Loj below the High Peaks, said hikers above the tree line actually become targets.

"Lightning tends to strike the highest object, so if you're on a summit or near a tree that is the highest object, you are vulnerable.

"In severe thunderstorms, people shouldn't even attempt to hike up mountains."

Good preparation is the first step on a good hike, especially given rough weather.

"We promote Leave No Trace and the first principle of Leave No Trace is plan ahead and prepare," Moruzzi said.

"That should be applied to everything you do outside. Check the weather before you hike. If severe weather is in the forecast and you've planned to summit, think about a safer option."