Lightning on Mount Temple’s East Ridge

Mark and Janelle Smiley were climbing the East Ridge of Mount Temple a few years ago when a storm rolled in. At 6:30 p.m., they were hiding just below the summit ridge of Mount Temple.

“The charged atmosphere is causing my hair to stand up even though it is damped from the unrelenting hail,” said Smiley. “Our ice axes, crampons, and all other metal objects, including my sterling silver earrings, are buzzing. The thunder started just as we overcame the crumbling black towers. The black towers were the final rock section before reaching the glacier.”

Afternoon thunderstorms are a regular thing in the Rockies. If you are heading up high, be sure to check the forecast, to move fast and bring a the proper jackets to stay dry.

Lightning on Temple