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TUCSON - The dangers of desert hikes in the Summer are obvious, as many head to higher elevations.

But the Monsoon can pose its own threat in the mountains. So what's a hiker to do when caught in a Monsoon storm? Here are some tips to help keep you safe...

- Start hikes to high peaks early in the morning. The later it gets in the day, the bigger the threat for lightning strikes on mountaintops. It's best to be heading down by mid-day or early afternoon.

- If a storm brews and lightning exists, the Coronado National Forest says its best to run into a forest of trees. Lightning tends to hit the tallest objects available, so don't seek shelter under an isolated tree.

- If you are caught out in the open, crouch with your feet together and head low. Discard any metal objects that are on you. DO NOT LIE DOWN FLAT! The more contact you make with the ground, the greater the area for lightning to strike, so think small.

- Always bring along a NOAA weather radio. This can alert you to approaching severe weather so you can take appropriate action.