The Central and Western Wyoming Lightning Safety
Toolkit and Backcountry Lightning Safety Campaign: A Wyoming Weather-Ready
Nation Project (73)
Timothy W. Troutman, National
Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office, Riverton, Wyoming
Brandy L. Bourque, National
Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office
Kathleen B. O'Leary, National
Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office
Abstract:
Wyoming has historically
ranked (since 1950) as one of the top five states per capita for fatalities and
injuries due to lightning. The Riverton, Wyoming WFO outreach team is working
to mitigate the loss of life and property due to lightning across western and
central Wyoming. An intentional lightning safety campaign has targeted improved
public awareness through growing partnerships with Weather-Ready Nation
ambassadors, county emergency management agencies, as well as schools, local
communities, and outdoor venues. At least 90 lightning safety toolkit locations
have been recognized across 11 counties in western and central Wyoming, leading
to over 100 lightning safety “When Thunder Roars, Go
Indoors” signs being installed locations across the region.
This safety campaign has
included the pilot project of improving backcountry lightning safety signage.
This pilot project focuses on lightning safety awareness for persons engaged in
outdoor activities in areas where access to buildings and vehicles is limited.
Local, state and federal agency partners are the focus of this preparedness
effort. The backcountry lightning safety signs will be installed at hiking
trailheads, campgrounds, and backcountry outdoor use permit stations on state and
federal lands. Wyoming, though known for its small population, has vast amounts
of public land, which is enjoyed by Wyoming residents as well as a sizeable
visitor population who participate in numerous outdoor activities throughout
the year. Lightning awareness and safety prevention is a critical component of
outdoor education for backcountry users.