Lightning Safety and Myth Busting with NOAA Meteorologist Charlie Woodrum (BPR #308)

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are giving you the lowdown on everything to do with lightning safety. We are joined by Charlie Woodrum who is the Preparedness and Resilience Lead with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service. We learn all about the biggest myths regarding lightning safety (including how metal trekking poles aren’t an added risk while backpacking), clear guidance on minimizing risk when caught in a thunderstorm, telltale signs of when the weather is going to turn, at what distance from a lightning strike are you considered safe, and much more.

We wrap the show with some new YouTube videos from The Trek, the scariest weather Zach and Chaunce have ever encountered, Zach's new stupidest thing of the week: fork edition, and the triple crown of juices.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com. 

Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off at shadyrays.com.

Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.

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Interview with Charlie Woodrum

• Charlie's NOAA Profile

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:20 - Reminders: listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!

00:11:15 - Introducing Charlie

00:12:20 - Tell us about NOAA

00:14:02 - How did you initially get into weather?

00:16:56 - Do meteorologists have certain traits?

00:19:03 - What is the perfect date for weather?

00:22:50 - Are you ever bored when the weather is calm?

00:23:35 - Are there hot topics in the meteorology community?

00:25:57 - Do you have any crazy storm chasing stories?

00:34:11 - What are the biggest misconceptions about lightning?

00:36:28 - What should you do when hiking above treeline?

00:38:00 - Is the timing between thunder and lightning real?

00:39:24 - What are your recommended weather apps?

00:40:40 - How far away should you be from lightning strikes to be considered safe?

00:41:35 - Do you find that free weather apps are sufficient?

00:42:50 - What are some of the early signs of a thunderstorm forming?

00:44:11 - What are the cues for specific locations?

00:46:45 - Do you not have to worry about lightning before you hear thunder?

00:47:56 - Where should you be when in a forest? 

00:50:00 - Is the lightning crouch still recommended?

00:51:30 - What if there’s no treeline around?

00:53:30 - Where should you put your tent?

00:57:00 - What percentage of