A strong electrical storm while you're in the motorhome can be unnerving: lightning, hail, wind, heavy rain. The good news is that, in most cases, the camper is a safe shelter. But it's worth knowing what to do and what to avoid so you can ride it out calmly. Here it is, straight and without scaremongering.
Lightning: you're fairly well protected
One of the most common worries. A metal vehicle works, to a large extent, like a Faraday cage: if lightning strikes, the current tends to travel through the bodywork down to the ground, leaving the inside relatively protected. That's why, during a strong electrical storm, the safest option is usually to stay inside the vehicle, without touching metal parts connected to the outside. It's safer than being out in the open or under a tree.
Note: campers with a lot of fibreglass/composite bodywork offer less protection than an all-metal body; when in doubt, common sense and staying away from exposed areas should guide you.
Before the storm: get ready
- Bring in the awning and anything left outside: wind is the biggest enemy (see the awning and strong wind).
- Find a sheltered, safe spot: avoid flood-prone areas (dry riverbeds, watercourses), large trees, or exposed hilltops.
- Point the camper nose into the wind so it offers less resistance.
- Close windows and roof lights.
Hail
Large hail can damage the bodywork and, above all, solar panels and roof lights. There's little you can do in the moment except, if you see it coming and can manage it, find some cover (a petrol station, a covered car park). That's why good insurance is worth having (see insurance).
During the storm
- Don't drive in heavy rain or hail: pull over somewhere safe and wait for it to ease.
- Watch out for flooding: never cross a flooded stretch of road; water carries more force than it appears to.
- Keep an eye on weather warnings (apps, alerts).
And since bad weather keeps you indoors, make sure you have plenty of power to spend the time comfortably (use the calculator).
In summary
During a storm, the camper is usually a safe shelter from lightning (thanks to the Faraday cage effect); the important thing is to prepare: bring in the awning, find a sheltered spot away from watercourses and trees, and don't drive in heavy rain or hail. The step to take today: if a storm is forecast, bring in everything left outside in good time and find a safe, flood-free spot; you'll be protected inside, so be patient until it passes. Pair it with strong wind.