Lightning is one of the most avoidable backcountry killers. How to plan storms out of your day, use the 30/30 rule, choose terrain when you are caught out, and why the crouch you were taught is no longer recommended.

The sky is the most current forecast you have. Read cloud types and sky signs to see rain, storms, and lightning coming hours ahead — and act before the weather lands on you.

How mountains make their own weather, how to read a forecast that actually applies to your route, and how to turn it into decisions while you still have options.