San Juan, Puerto Rico – Even during the quieter winter months, officials in Puerto Rico are reflecting on a deadly reminder from 2025, when one person on the island was killed by a lightning strike.
According to the National Weather Service and the National Lightning Safety Council, 21 people across the United States and its territories died from lightning strikes in 2025, marking the deadliest year since 2019. Puerto Rico’s lone fatality occurred during an outdoor activity, consistent with national trends showing lightning deaths most often happen when people are exposed during work or recreation.
In the San Juan metro area, no lightning-related deaths were reported in 2025. Still, Puerto Rico remains highly vulnerable once the wetter months return. The island experiences frequent thunderstorms, especially during the warm season, with lightning posing a serious threat to beachgoers, outdoor workers, hikers, and those near open water.
Emergency managers are urging residents to use this time to prepare for 2026. If thunder can be heard, people should move indoors immediately to a substantial building or enclosed vehicle. Beaches, open fields, isolated trees, rooftops, and bodies of water are especially dangerous during storms, and outdoor activity should not resume until at least 30 minutes after the last thunder.
Officials say reinforcing lightning safety awareness ahead of the next active weather season is critical to preventing future tragedies across Puerto Rico.
