What action should a Surface Weather Observer take if they observe a lightning strike nearby?

Seeking shelter and ensuring personal safety is paramount when a Surface Weather Observer observes a nearby lightning strike. Lightning poses a significant threat to safety, and personal protection is the first priority.

While it is essential to continue observing weather conditions, safety protocols dictate that observers should find a safe location, such as a building or a vehicle, during a lightning event. This dual approach allows the observer to maintain their responsibility to monitor weather while minimizing risk. If conditions allow, they can still document observations from a safe location or resume once it is safe to do so.

Choosing to ignore the situation or simply continue working without securing safety is risky, as it exposes the observer to potential harm. Leaving the observation area entirely may not be practical since the observer still needs to monitor weather changes, but ensuring one is in a safe environment while observing is crucial. Reporting the strike to a weather station may be important, but prioritizing safety takes precedence. Thus, the action of seeking shelter while potentially continuing observations aligns with proper safety guidelines and meteorological responsibilities.