Alpine storms: off the ridge by midday

Alpine thunderstorms are back on their summer schedule. On hot days they build through the afternoon and often fire between 14:00 and 16:00. Lightning on an exposed ridge is no joke. Start by seven, aim to be off the high ground by midday. If the sky stacks up while you are still on a pass, descend straight away rather than waiting it out. The reward comes at dusk, when the storms clear and the peaks glow.