When out boating on the water, a thunderstorm is one of the most dangerous things that can happen. In a huge open space such as a lake or ocean, things such as boats are much more susceptible to getting struck by lightning than if they were on land. This is because, in an open area like a lake or ocean, there are very few conductors around that the lightning bolt will hit besides your Polycraft boat or Quintrex boat.

Look Out for These Signs...

• Flat clouds getting thicker and bigger and closer to the horizon while puffy vertically rising clouds getting higher. Also paired with dark, threatening clouds
• A sudden drop in temperature
• A halo around the sun or moon
• Increasing wind or a sudden change in wind direction
• Flashes on the horizon
• Waves are getting stronger
• There is heavy AM radio static, which can indicate nearby thunderstorm activity

During the Thunderstorm

Put on Life Jackets and Harnesses

When the waves are getting stronger and the wind is howling badly, you need to let everyone on board wear life jackets right away. No matter how good of a swimmer you are, heavy waves and rain are hard to swim against. Plus, the temperature in the water drops quickly, which makes it hard to swim when you’re shivering from the cold waters. Don’t forget to have a harness attached to cleats or tie-offs in your boat and have them available to secure everyone on board.

Stay Away from Metal Objects

If lightning strikes the boat or near it, there is a great chance you could get severely electrocuted if you’re touching a metal part or object. Gather everyone on the boat to the cockpit so they can avoid touching any metal objects.

Prepare Your Anchor

Ready your boat anchor. If you can, head to a narrow body of water and anchor your boat from the bow to keep the vessel headed into the waves. Do not anchor in the wide portion of the water to avoid getting washed ashore.

Monitor Your Radio

Tune in to the authorities' direct channel on your marine VHF radio for updates on the weather. Listen for distress calls from other boaters. You can help them if they are in trouble.

Should You Drive a Boat in A Thunderstorm?

If your boat is large enough to handle the waves and has a cabin for you and your passengers to take shelter, you're in a better position during rough weather. However, if you're on a smaller, open boat like a tinnie boat, it's important to get out of the waves and avoid potential lightning strikes.

To stay safe, use a non-conductive object (such as wood, plastic, glass, or rubber) to steer the boat, and keep your hands in your pockets to reduce the risk of electrocution if lightning hits. Ensure that everyone on board is wearing a life jacket.

Once you reach the shore, take cover inside a building and wait for the storm to pass.