Kiteboarding is an extreme sport. Extremely exciting, extreme speed, extreme air, extremely liberating, etc., BUT it doesn't have to be extremely deadly.
Summertime in Florida brings frequent storms, many of them with accompanying strong, gusty winds, and often with updrafts and lightning.
Here's the scenario ...
You are out kiteboarding. Huge dark cumulus clouds are moving in your general direction. So you:
a) keep riding until you hear thunder
b) keep riding as long as the cloud doesn't go directly over you
c) keep riding through the storm, while yelling at the sky, "Come on! You call this a storm?"
d) put your kite down on the beach and wait for the clouds to pass
Answer: I'll give you hint - I witnessed two kiteboarders get struck by lightning this year.The dark clouds were not directly overhead, and there was no previous thunder. They both saw a blue glow coming down their lines and felt tingling in their arms. They both survived with ringing in their ears and a new appreciation for life! ... so put the kite down on the beach and wait for the clouds to pass. At the very least, you can get hydrated, say hello to fellow kiters, or seek shelter in your vehicle from the pounding rain. Then resume your session safely under a clear sky!
Live to ride another day!
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