The Rocky Mountains attract millions of visitors each year, and, unfortunately, some of these visitors are hit by lightning. The Lightning Data Center in Denver has accumulated data from lightning strikes in the region that give insights about those who are struck. Lightning-related injuries in the Rockies usually affect healthy people who are engaged in recreation or sports. More than half of those who died of lightning strikes in the Rockies were visitors. Being hit above timberline is often fatal.
Male victims outnumber female victims four to one.
The typical casualty is a healthy man in his mid-30s. High on the list of activities are mountain hiking, climbing, camping, fishing, boating, and golfing. Some of these injuries and deaths are preventable. Many vacationers are unaware of the measures they can take to lower their risk of being struck. They should educate themselves about lightning strikes.