Chicago, IL – As National Lightning Safety Awareness Week unfolds, the National Weather Service is urging residents to heed the critical advice: “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.” This annual observance serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by lightning, highlighting the need for precautionary measures. Here, we explore some recent and tragic lightning strikes, drawing lessons to help prevent future tragedies.
On Saturday, two people were hospitalized after lightning struck a tree near a home along a golf course hosting the PGA Tour’s Travelers Championship. Three people were standing near the tree at the time, but only two required hospitalization. This incident underscores the importance of seeking shelter immediately during a storm.
Last month, a rancher and 30 cows were killed by lightning in Colorado. This was the first recorded lightning fatality in the continental United States in 2024. The tragic event highlights the deadly impact of lightning on both humans and animals.
In another incident earlier this spring, a man in Atlanta, Georgia, was killed by lightning while playing golf with his friends. Golf courses, with their open spaces and tall trees, are particularly hazardous during storms, emphasizing the need to abandon outdoor activities when lightning is near.
Last September, a 16-year-old girl in Florida was fatally struck by lightning while hunting with her father. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder that lightning can strike unexpectedly, and seeking appropriate shelter is crucial.
According to the CDC, the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are less than one in a million, and almost 90% of lightning strike victims survive. Despite these odds, awareness and preparedness are essential to mitigate risks effectively.
By understanding the risks and following recommended safety practices, we can reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by lightning. National Lightning Safety Awareness Week serves as a crucial reminder that when thunder roars, it’s time to go indoors.
