What’s the best way to handle a horse during a storm or bad weather?

Handling a horse during a storm or bad weather in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires careful attention to both your horse''s condition and the environmental challenges. Storms, heavy rain, and lightning can spook your horse, making it harder to control and potentially leading to dangerous situations. To manage this effectively, you need to understand the game mechanics and take specific steps to keep your horse calm and safe.\n\nFirst, when a storm begins, immediately slow your horse''s pace. Press the left stick lightly to reduce speed, as galloping or sprinting in bad weather can cause your horse to slip or panic. If you''re riding through muddy or uneven terrain, this is especially important, as your horse''s stamina will drain faster, and its footing may become unstable. Slowing down also reduces the chance of your horse bucking you off if it gets spooked by lightning or thunder.\n\nNext, keep an eye on your horse''s stamina and health cores. Bad weather can drain these faster than usual, so make sure to feed your horse regularly with hay, wild carrots, or horse tonics. These items can be found in your satchel or purchased from stables and general stores. If your horse''s stamina is low, avoid pushing it too hard, as this can lead to exhaustion and slower recovery times. Additionally, brushing your horse with a horse brush (found in your inventory) can help maintain its health core and keep it calm during the storm.\n\nIf your horse becomes agitated or starts to buck, quickly soothe it by pressing the calm button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox). This action reassures your horse and prevents it from throwing you off. Repeatedly calming your horse during a storm is crucial, as lightning strikes and loud thunder can cause it to panic. If you''re near a town or settlement, consider taking shelter in a stable or under a covered area to wait out the storm. This not only protects your horse but also prevents unnecessary damage to its condition.\n\nIn some cases, you may need to dismount and lead your horse on foot. This is particularly useful in extreme weather conditions, such as blizzards or heavy thunderstorms. To do this, hold the dismount button and then hold the lead button to guide your horse manually. Leading your horse reduces the risk of it getting spooked and allows you to navigate tricky terrain more safely. However, be cautious of predators or hostile NPCs, as being on foot makes you more vulnerable.\n\nFinally, consider equipping your horse with better gear to improve its performance in bad weather. Purchasing a better saddle or stirrups from a stable can increase your horse''s stamina and health regeneration, making it easier to handle during storms. Additionally, using horse ointment or other tonics can temporarily boost your horse''s stats, giving you an edge in challenging conditions.\n\nBy following these steps, you can ensure your horse remains calm and safe during storms or bad weather. Remember to monitor its condition, slow your pace, and take shelter when necessary. With proper care and attention, your horse will remain a reliable companion, even in the harshest conditions.