Bad time to head outside with a tall metal rod

STORM

Think of a weather event where you’d avoid open fields or high ground—especially if you’re holding something that could attract a dangerous spark.

This clue plays on the idea of a "bad time" to be outside with something tall and metal—like a lightning rod—during a storm. The word "storm" itself is the answer, since storms are dangerous for holding metal objects that attract lightning. The hint subtly combines the literal meaning of a storm with the common-sense warning about metal and electricity.