06/13/2026
American Lifeguard Association Issues Thunderstorm Safety Reminder for Swimming Pools Amid Severe Weather Across the United States
With severe thunderstorms, lightning events, and rapidly changing weather conditions affecting many parts of the United States, the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is reminding aquatic facilities, lifeguards, pool operators, and the public of the critical importance of thunderstorm safety around both outdoor and indoor swimming pools.
While many people associate lightning danger primarily with outdoor activities, thunderstorms can create significant hazards for swimmers and aquatic staff in both outdoor and indoor environments. Every year, lightning strikes result in injuries and fatalities across the country, and aquatic facilities must have clear emergency action plans in place to protect patrons and employees.
Outdoor Pool Safety
Outdoor swimming pools present one of the highest-risk environments during an approaching thunderstorm. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and a lightning strike can travel through pool water, surrounding decks, metal fencing, handrails, and nearby structures.
The American Lifeguard Association recommends that lifeguards and pool management immediately clear the water at the first sign of thunder or visible lightning. Waiting until a storm is directly overhead is not acceptable. If thunder can be heard, lightning is close enough to pose a serious threat.
Patrons should be directed to a substantial building or a fully enclosed vehicle. Open shelters, pavilions, tents, umbrellas, and shade structures do not provide adequate protection from lightning.
Swimming activities should not resume until the facility’s lightning detection system, weather-monitoring procedure, or designated safety official determines that conditions are safe. Where no detection system is available, facilities should follow National Weather Service guidance and wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard or lightning is observed before reopening the pool.
Lightning can travel through electrical systems, plumbing, metal structures, and water lines connected to the facility. As a result, aquatic managers should review local policies and emergency action plans regarding thunderstorm procedures for indoor pools.
Recommendations for Lifeguard Staff
Lifeguards should continuously monitor weather conditions throughout their shift, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms can develop rapidly.
Key responsibilities include:
Monitoring weather radar and local forecasts.
Recognizing early warning signs such as darkening skies, increasing winds, distant thunder, or visible lightning.
Initiating facility emergency action plans without delay.
Communicating clearly and professionally with patrons.
Ensuring all swimmers, spectators, and staff move to designated safe areas.
Restricting access to showers, pool water, decks, and other water-connected areas when required by the facility’s thunderstorm safety procedures.
Maintaining supervision until all areas have been fully evacuated.
Documenting weather-related closures and incidents according to facility procedures.
Most importantly, lifeguards should never feel pressured to keep a pool open when weather conditions present a potential danger. Safety must always take precedence over convenience or scheduling concerns.
The American Lifeguard Association emphasizes that proactive decision-making saves lives. A temporary pool closure may be inconvenient, but it is insignificant compared to the potentially devastating consequences of a lightning-related injury or fatality. As severe weather continues to impact communities across the nation, aquatic facilities are encouraged to review their emergency procedures and ensure all staff members are prepared to respond quickly and effectively.
