Directions for prevention (17) Stay away from trees when you hear thunder

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What would you do if you heard thunder during an outdoor event or when engaging in sports activities? Seek refuge inside a sturdy building. In a campsite, the tent pole may be struck by lightning. If there is no building nearby, protect yourself by staying as low as possible.

Do not approach a tree or a utility pole. There is a danger that the current from a lightning strike may jump to people nearby. In a 2012 outdoor live event in Osaka, lightning struck a tree near the attendees, resulting in 2 deaths. Stay 4 or more meters away from trees and utility poles.

　Nowcast, which is available on the Meteorological Agency website, predicts rain cloud movement and lightening danger 1 hour ahead and displays them on the map. Private weather information companies provide information via apps, enabling us to check any danger in your current location when you are out. Enjoy autumn recreation while checking the weather forecast.