Surviving a Thunderstorm

A PREPAREDNESS GUIDE for severe weather is published by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/National Weather Service. The following is our adaptation of that guide to specifically address cyclist concerns. National Weather Service has reviewed and approved this adaptation.

In general . . .

• Cyclists on the road are most at risk from thunderstorms if they are under or near tall trees, are on or near hilltops, or are themselves high points on flat terrain (such as crossing an open field).
• Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.
• Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Look for safe shelter immediately!
• When skies darken, look AND listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, sound of thunder
• Lightning remains a danger even when a thunderstorm is dissipating or has passed by.

When thunderstorms approach . . .

• If you are on a hill with exposure to the sky, try to head downhill, seeking out an overhanging bluff or a valley or ravine where you can lower your exposure.
• Move to a sturdy building or shelter if there is one within reach (such as an underpass, a large barn, a store or railroad station). Do not take shelter in small sheds or under isolated trees.
• However, get to higher ground if flash flooding is possible where you are (such as by a creek bed).

If caught outdoors and no shelter is nearby . . .

• Find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shorter trees. (Lightning is more likely to strike the tallest trees.)
• If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, dismount fast, get away from your bike, and squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible, and minimize your contact with the ground.

Source : League of American Bicyclist. Photo courtesy of www.mark-ju.net.

Riding Your Bike in the Rain

With autumn not only do we see the falling leaves, but we tend to see the falling rain. The combination of the rain and the leaves can make cycling very dangerous. However, there are some things that you can do to prevent injury and make your ride safer.

Visibility

• Wear bright yellow or orange to make yourself more visible
• Consider reflectors or lights for your bicycle
• Wear a visor or cap under your helmet to shield your eyes from rain and dirt

Technique

Braking in the rain or anytime your rims are wet, remember that the first few revolutions will only dry the rims and pads. Allow yourself more stopping distance. Once the rims and pads are dry you may find yourself suddenly stopping, be ready to loosen your grip. Skidding can result if you are not careful.

Hazards of the Road

• Avoid painted line or steel surfaces
• At the beginning of a rain the dirt and oil may be more treacherous
• Keeping your tires slightly under inflated increases contact with the road

Equipment

Fenders maybe a good investment, especially if you commute. They are fairly effective at keeping the rain and dirt off of you and your bike. Keeping your bicycle in good form, by waxing the frame and keeping the drivetrain well lubricated you can help prevent some of the wear and tear of the weather. Also, servicing your bike immediately upon completion of a ride will help.

Just wipe the bike down with a towel and lubricate the chain. Some prefer using a water dispersing spray on houses, cables, gear and pivots of the brakes.

For serious riders investing in rain gear may also be an option for personal cleanliness.

Now go get on your bike!

Source: About: Bicycling Website