SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/swim-lightning-30-minutes

After the last thunder, how long should you wait before getting back in an outdoor pool?

At least 30 minutes after the last thunder.

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  1. At least 30 minutes ✔
  2. 5 minutes, once the rain stops
  3. No wait, once the sun is out

Why: Electrical charge can linger after a storm seems to pass. The National Weather Service says to wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back to outdoor activities.

Huh, didn't know that: The NWS says the lightning threat reaches about 6 to 10 miles out from the base of a thunderstorm.

The dad joke
Why did the cloud stay home from the pool party? It was feeling under the weather.
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References

Answer: At least 30 minutes. Electrical charge can linger after a storm seems to pass. The National Weather Service says to wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back to outdoor activities.

  1. National Weather Service: Lightning Safety and Outdoor Sports www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-sports
    experts agree that people should wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activities
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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