Golf courses are prime lightning strike zones due to open spaces, elevated terrain, and conductive equipment. Lightning kills an average of 49 people annually in the U.S., with golfers disproportionately affected. This guide provides actionable steps to minimize risks when storms threaten.
Recognizing Danger Signs
Early Warning Indicators
Dark, turbulent clouds appearing even 10-15 miles away
Distant thunder (use the 5-second rule: divide seconds between lightning flash and thunder by 5 to calculate miles distance)
Sudden weather shifts like temperature drops or strong gusts
Static electricity causing hair to stand, buzzing sounds in ears, or tingling skin
Metal equipment vibration near carts, clubs, or fences
Steps When a Storm Approaches
Immediate Actions
Suspend play immediately upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning
Seek shelter at least 100 feet away from high-risk zones
Assume the lightning position (crouch on toes, head tucked, ears covered) if stranded
Avoid High-Risk Areas
| Hazard | Risk Level | Why Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Tall trees | Extreme | Attract lightning strikes |
| Open fields | High | Makes victims the tallest object |
| Water hazards | Severe | Water conducts electricity |
| Elevated areas | High | Ridge lines increase strike probability |
| Metal objects | Extreme | Conduct electricity over distance |
The 30-30 Rule
- Count seconds between lightning flash and thunder
- If <30 seconds, storm is dangerously close
- Wait 30 minutes after last lightning before resuming play
Safe Shelter Options
Recommended Structures
Fully enclosed buildings with plumbing/wiring (clubhouses preferred)
Enclosed vehicles with metal roofs (maintenance trucks or personal cars)
Concrete shelters away from walls/windows
Unsafe "Shelters"
- Golf cart canopies
- Open-air pavilions
- Tree cover
- Underground bunkers (risk of ground current)
After Finding Shelter
- Remove soaked clothing
- Avoid contact with metal surfaces
- Monitor weather via weather apps or NOAA radios
- Account for all group members
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting for rain to start evacuation
- Using umbrellas (increase conductivity)
- Storing gear near exit routes
- Touching multiple golf carts simultaneously
Post-Storm Procedures
- Wait 30 minutes after last thunderclap before exiting shelter
- Inspect course for downed trees/power lines
- Document incident for facility safety records
Key Takeaways
- "When thunder roars, go indoors" remains the guiding principle
- Prevention (early detection) > reaction (survival tactics)
- Courses should maintain lightning detection systems and emergency action plans
This proactive approach combines situational awareness, proper shelter identification, and risk avoidance to protect recreational athletes on vulnerable course landscapes.