SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/golf-lightning-stop

What should a group do when lightning is seen on a golf course?

Stop play immediately and seek shelter in a safe building.

Start playing free

  1. Finish the hole quickly
  2. Hold a club in the air
  3. Stop playing and enter a substantial building ✔

Why: NOAA says there is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are near. Rule 5.7a lets a golfer stop play if they believe lightning is a danger.

Huh, didn't know that: NOAA says to stay inside until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

The dad joke
My golf clubs are lightning rods, especially on the back nine after a bad shot.
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References

Answer: Stop playing and enter a substantial building. NOAA says there is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are near. Rule 5.7a lets a golfer stop play if they believe lightning is a danger.

  1. NOAA JetStream, Lightning Safety www.noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
    When thunder roars, go indoors and stay there until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. The R&A, Rules of Golf, Rule 5 Playing the Round www.randa.org/en/rog/the-rules-of-golf/rule-5
    A player may stop play if they reasonably believe there is danger from lightning
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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