"Mountain Weather Safety
This tragic incident is also a reminder of how quickly weather conditions can change in the mountains. Thunderstorms can develop rapidly, and lightning can strike well away from the main area of rainfall.
The National Weather Service recommends that hikers check the weather forecast before beginning a hike and closely monitor changing conditions while on the mountain. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Hikers should immediately move away from exposed ridgelines, peaks and other elevated areas and seek substantial shelter when possible.
Small structures such as sheds, shelters and similar buildings do not provide adequate protection from lightning. The safest locations are substantial, fully enclosed buildings or an enclosed, hard-topped vehicle."
