SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-mountain-storms-start-early

In the mountains, when do summer thunderstorms usually build, so hikers should start early?

Early afternoon. Hike early and be off the mountain by about noon.

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  1. Early afternoon ✔
  2. Right at sunrise
  3. Around midnight

Why: Sun heats the slopes through the morning and storms often form by early afternoon. The Weather Service says plan to hike early in the day and be down the mountain by noon.

Huh, didn't know that: The Park Service says thunderstorms usually develop in the early afternoon, although they can occur at any time.

The dad joke
Why do early birds make great hikers? They always beat the afternoon storm.
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References

Answer: Early afternoon. Sun heats the slopes through the morning and storms often form by early afternoon. The Weather Service says plan to hike early in the day and be down the mountain by noon.

  1. NPS: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors www.nps.gov/articles/lightning-safety.htm
    In summer months, thunderstorms usually develop in the early afternoon, although they can occur at any time.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. NWS: Lightning Safety Outdoors www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-outdoors
    Your best source of up-to-date weather information is a NOAA Weather Radio (NWR).
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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