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Book 7, Question 140 · Video

Why Check the Sky Before a Picnic or Hike?

Video · 2:04 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 7

A picnic or hike is much more fun when you are not caught in a storm. Storm clouds can build fast, and you might be far from shelter. A quick look at the sky and the forecast can w

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hey there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why check the sky before a picnic or hike?

The Big Idea

A picnic or hike is much more fun when you are not caught in a storm. Storm clouds can build fast, and you might be far from shelter. A quick look at the sky and the forecast can warn you early, and that is why we check first!

Check the Forecast

Step one: check the forecast. Before you leave, a grown-up checks the forecast for storms, heat, or strong wind. If it looks risky, you can pick a different day.

Read the Sky

Step two: read the sky. Tall, dark, towering clouds, sudden wind, and distant thunder are warning signs. Storms can come together quickly.

Know Your Shelter

Step three: know your shelter. Make sure there is a safe building or car nearby, not a tree or open field. When thunder roars, go indoors, and wait 30 minutes after the last rumble.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at a sky check! Check for storms ahead. Look for tall dark clouds. Notice sudden gusts. Know where to go for safety. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck, so move to safe shelter right away. Sheltering under a tree is dangerous, because lightning often strikes tall things. A safe shelter is a sturdy building or a hard-topped car with the windows closed.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Check the forecast before you head out. Tall dark clouds can mean storms soon. If you hear thunder, go inside right away. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Let's plan a safe outing. Make sky check step one of your plan. Ask a grown-up to check storms and heat. Know where to go if thunder starts. Bring water, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.

Outro

A quick sky check helps adventures stay safe. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this