What should one do if they notice their hair standing on end during a lightning storm?

When hair stands on end during a lightning storm, it is a physiological response indicating that a lightning strike is imminent. The correct action in this scenario is to assume a crouched position. This posture minimizes the body's height and ground contact area, which can reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.

Taking a crouched position allows individuals to lower their center of gravity, creating a smaller target. It's important to maintain contact with the ground through the feet while minimizing the surface area that could attract lightning. This position also helps to shield vital organs and keeps the body more stable in such dangerous conditions, decreasing the chance of being affected by the electrical discharge.

In contrast, seeking an open area could increase exposure to potential strikes, while raising arms above the head would elevate the body further in space, making it a larger target. Additionally, higher ground could also be perilous as it increases the likelihood of encountering lightning. Thus, assuming a crouched position is the most effective and safest response when faced with such an alarming sign during a lightning storm.