What’s the best way to handle a horse during a thunderstorm?

Handling a horse during a thunderstorm in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires careful attention to both your horse''s behavior and the game''s mechanics. Thunderstorms can spook your horse, making it harder to control and potentially leading to dangerous situations. To manage this, start by calming your horse frequently. Press the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to soothe your horse, which reduces its fear level and prevents it from bucking you off. This is especially important during lightning strikes, as they can startle your horse even more.\n\nNext, avoid galloping at full speed during a thunderstorm. While it might be tempting to rush to shelter, doing so increases the risk of your horse tripping or colliding with obstacles. Instead, maintain a steady trot or canter by holding the sprint button (X on PlayStation or A on Xbox) lightly. This allows you to navigate uneven terrain and avoid hazards like fallen trees or rocks, which are harder to see in the rain.\n\nIf you''re near a town or settlement, consider seeking shelter. Locations like Valentine, Rhodes, or Saint Denis have stables where you can temporarily stable your horse. This not only protects your horse from the storm but also prevents it from losing health or stamina. If you''re in the wilderness, look for natural shelters like caves or overhangs. For example, the cave near Elysian Pool in New Hanover is a great spot to wait out a storm.\n\nAnother key mechanic to consider is your horse''s bonding level. A higher bonding level (Level 4 is the maximum) makes your horse more resilient to fear and easier to control during stressful situations. To increase bonding, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse. Use items like Hay or Carrots, which can be purchased from stables or found in the wild, to keep your horse''s health and stamina in good condition.\n\nFinally, be prepared for unexpected events. Thunderstorms in Red Dead Redemption 2 can trigger random encounters, such as ambushes or animal attacks. Keep your weapons ready and stay alert. For example, if you''re riding through the Grizzlies during a storm, wolves or cougars might appear. Having a rifle or shotgun equipped can help you defend yourself and your horse.\n\nIn summary, handling a horse during a thunderstorm involves calming your horse, riding cautiously, seeking shelter when possible, and maintaining a high bonding level. By following these steps, you can ensure both you and your horse stay safe and in control, no matter how severe the weather gets.