What should I do when a storm with lightning approaches?
Guideline- USA
- Little League Baseball
- Minor League
- League age 5-12
- Regular season
- 2026 rules
- Volunteers
Little League's lightning safety guidelines recommend that someone be designated as the lightning monitor, and that it not be a coach or umpire, since they can't give the weather their full attention. A volunteer is a good fit. The monitor must know the plan and be empowered to make sure it's followed.
Stop activities and move everyone to safety when:
- lightning is seen,
- thunder is heard,
- the time from flash to thunder is 30 seconds or less, or
- the sky looks threatening.
Dugouts, rain shelters and sheds are not safe. Use a substantial building with wiring and plumbing, or a hard-topped vehicle with windows closed. Wait at least 30 minutes after the storm passes before resuming.
If someone is struck, call for medical help at once. Victims carry no electrical charge and can be helped immediately, including CPR if needed.
Added 21 Oct 2026