When thunder rolls and lightning strikes

How to stay safe in a mountain thunderstorm

Hiking in Berchtesgaden is especially rewarding in summer. Alpine flowers are in full bloom, the heat lingers in the mountain pines, and sunlit rock glows with a character all its own. Cows graze on fresh grasses and herbs, and up at the alpine hut, you might be treated to freshly made “Schüsselkas”.

But the mood can shift in an instant. Between May and August, thunderstorms are especially common in the afternoons. In the mountains, they often form locally and are difficult to predict. Even with careful planning, you might find yourself caught in a storm while out hiking in Berchtesgaden.

What to do in a thunderstorm

It’s important to know the key safety guidelines and how to respond if the weather suddenly turns. The most important rule: stay calm. From there, these tips will help you make the best decision for your situation.

  • That way, you can often avoid afternoon heat thunderstorms altogether.

  • Keep a close eye on the weather forecast. When planning your route, factor in possible shelter options like mountain and alpine huts, and think through a potential emergency descent.

  • Towering cumulus clouds building upward, gusty winds picking up, and a static buzz in the air are all signs of an approaching storm. Distant thunder or flashes on the horizon are your cue to start planning your exit—fast. If the gap between lightning and thunder drops to ten seconds, the storm is only about three kilometers or two miles away. That’s your signal: it’s time to act.

  • Leave exposed areas as quickly as possible—move away from summit crosses, rock towers, and exposed ridgelines.

    • Forest edges
    • Isolated trees
    • Rock overhangs beneath freestanding boulders
    • Water, wet rock faces, and damp, mossy ground

Alpine Information Service

For more information, contact the Alpine Information Service of the German Alpine Club (DAV), Berchtesgaden section.

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