Is it safe to wait in the dugout, under a tent or in the bleachers?

No. The National Weather Service says there is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area.

NWS lightning guidance for coaches and sports officials says to avoid:

• Dugouts, sheds, and small or open shelters
• Bleachers and grandstands
• Metal bleachers, backstops and fences. Lightning can travel long distances through metal.
• Trees, towers, utility poles and open areas. Never shelter under an isolated tree.

Tents and pop-up canopies don't count either. The NFHS guidelines (October 2024) list only substantial buildings and fully enclosed metal vehicles as safer places.

Go to a substantial building or a hard-topped, fully enclosed metal vehicle with the windows closed. Once inside a building, stay off corded phones and away from wiring and plumbing.