How Weather Affects Camping

Small | Medium | Large

When setting out on a camping adventure, it is a good idea to find out about the weather conditions in the area that you are planning to go. The best way is to listen to the news and weather for that area, or look it up before you head out. Strong winds and heavy rain and hail can literally destroy tents, and cause damage to motor homes or campers. Lightening also poses a dangerous threat to campers. Flash floods could wreck your camping trip, and could wash your camping belongings away, not to mention your vehicle or the people with you on your camping trip.

Select a campsite that is on high ground away from rivers or near lakes that could be a potential flood threat. When setting up a tent, do not put it right next to a tree. A tree will attract an electrical charge from a cloud. Do not stand under a tree in an electrical storm, because you may be a victim of a lightening strike.

One of the easiest ways to predict the weather is to watch the clouds. Overcast clouds usually mean rain or showers. Look at the shape, density, and overall coverage of the clouds. When the weather is very humid, it usually means it is going to rain. If you are uncertain about a potential storm, it is best to go ahead and take precautions. Dangerous weather could strike at any given time.
Prepare yourself for the worst, and stay alert at all times.