Lightning
Lightning kills approximately 75 people each year in the United States. Lightning occurs frequently in the desert during thunderstorms, even if no rain is falling. If you see gathering storm clouds or lightning, or hear thunder, there is a growing risk that lightning could strike. Take cover in a vehicle or building if possible. Otherwise, move to low areas like canyon bottoms. Do not take cover under tall trees, but if you are seeking shelter from the rain, choose a tree that tops out below the canyon sides and below other trees. If you are in a barren area and lightning is getting close, lay flat on the ground in a depression. You can tell how close lightning is by counting the seconds between the time you see the lightning and hear the thunder. The lightning is a thousand feet away for each second you count. Take cover when lightning is within three miles (15 seconds). Do not wait for the lightning to get dangerously close before you decide to take cover