What to Do If You Get Caught in a Thunderstorm on the Lake

Everyone knows our weather in Texas is volatile. And on those warm summer days, a surge of cooler air can come in and collide – causing thunderstoms on the lake! So what do you do if you get caught on the lake in a thunderstorm?! Here are some tips from Buxton Marine – the #1 Nautique dealer – on how to weather the storm safely:

Know the Weather Forecast

Our weather forecasters don’t always get the weather right, but paying attention to the National Weather Service and what weather conditions they are predicting for the day is step 1 in avoiding getting caught in a storm on the lake.

Watch the Sky

As you are out boating and having a great time on your Nautique, watch the sky. Are dark skies rolling in? Do you see lighting or hear thunder in the distance? Thunder and lightning is first detectable from distances over a mile away, so if you see or hear a storm brewing, it’s a good idea to get to the shoreline before the skies open up.

Practice Precaution On Board

If you get caught in a storm, make sure that everyone on board is in a life jacket! This is vitally important, should the boat rock and anyone get thrown overboard. Also, get each person to the lowest point on board, as to keep them away from being a target in the sky. 

Navigate the Water Safely

As the storm rolls in, point your boat’s bow toward the gusts of wind, as this is the strongest part of the boat. Cut giant waves at a 45 degree angle. Do not let the waves and the wind cut your boat abeam, as this can make your boat more prone to capsizing.

When you are buying a Nautique, you know you are buying quality that can make stormy days on the lake more bearable – and more safe. Come see us at Buxton Marine – the #1 Nautique dealer – to learn more about what makes Nautique the best boat on the market.