{"id":6719,"date":"2023-02-20T10:01:08","date_gmt":"2023-02-20T09:01:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/varenmetsil.nl\/varen-met-onweer\/"},"modified":"2024-07-08T09:20:01","modified_gmt":"2024-07-08T08:20:01","slug":"varen-met-onweer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/varenmetsil.nl\/en\/varen-met-onweer\/","title":{"rendered":"Boating in Thunderstorms: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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During your boating trip, you naturally want to enjoy the nice weather. But what do you do if a thunderstorm suddenly rolls in? We’ll tell you what you can do to have a safe boating experience during severe weather. Curious about the tips? Keep reading to find out more.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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Is sailing during thunderstorms really dangerous?<\/h2>\n

Even during the hottest summer days, a storm can suddenly appear. This can be unpleasant and stressful, especially if a storm escalates into a downpour or severe weather. Depending on your location and the type of boat you’re sailing, this could potentially put you in danger.<\/p>\n

The power of water<\/h3>\n

All bodies of water have currents, which can quickly intensify when sailing far from the coast. Fortunately, many boats are built with strong materials that can withstand tough conditions! However, when lightning strikes, the water can quickly become an unsafe place for recreational activities.<\/p>\n

Some people may find the idea of swimming during thunderstorms somewhat exhilarating, often romanticized in certain films. However, we strongly advise against swimming during thunderstorms. Why? There’s a significant risk of lightning striking the water. And well, we all know what happens when an electrical cable comes into contact with a full bathtub.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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Safety on board<\/h2>\n

Whether you’re navigating remote or local waters, there’s always a risk of your boat being struck by lightning. If you’re sailing in a metal boat with an enclosed cockpit, ensure shelter and keep your sliding roof, hatches, and ventilation openings closed. It’s also crucial not to extend arms or legs outside.<\/p>\n

If your boat is predominantly made of wood or plastic, lightning can pose greater dangers. Electrical currents always find a path to water, which can cause damage if, for example, your wooden boat has a metal mast. This could lead to hull splitting. To prevent such scenarios, our flat-bottomed boats and motorboats have wooden masts. On board, you’ll also find all necessary equipment for critical situations, including:<\/p>\n