Warm weather around Mount Rainier has been creating some pretty large electrical storms near the mountain. Spectacular to see from afar, but a bit unnerving to be near - especially if there's nothing else around that's taller than you! Safety around electrical storms is all about minimizing the chances of getting hit. Put the odds in your favor by avoiding any climb that puts you near a storm, staying near depressions and away from ridge tops, and crouch with your feet close together if the storm is unavoidable. Definitely don't climb up into a storm - it's generally
not fun.
Also - a heads up: for those of you planning to arrive in the wee hours or depart late this next week, Monday through Wednesday, August 4, 5, and 6 the Nisqually Road will be CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC between the Westside Road and Longmire between the hours of 9:30 pm & 4:30 am. This is the main road into the park from Seattle and Portland. Climbers heading into or out of the Paradise area during these nights will need to use Stevens Canyon Road.
