As the 25th annual National Lightning Safety Awareness Week starts on June 22, recent incidents highlight the dangers posed by lightning. Over the course of two days, June 19 and 20, at least four individuals were struck by lightning amidst summer thunderstorms across the country. A 15-year-old boy was injured in Central Park, New York, on June 19. The next day, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, a 29-year-old man was critically injured while standing in shallow waters, and two men nearby were jolted by a strike but survived without hospitalization.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the hazards associated with lightning, especially as summer progresses. John Jensenius, a lightning specialist with the National Lightning Safety Council, emphasizes the peak of the lightning season arrives from late June through August, correlating with increased outdoor activities and a rise in lightning fatalities.
Previously, on June 8 in Gunter, Texas, Spencer Loalbo, a 41-year-old father, was tragically killed by lightning while golfing, while his father was critically injured. This incident marked the third lightning fatality in the U.S. for the year. Fishing remains the leading cause of lightning deaths, followed closely by activities like golf and yard work.
Reports from the National Weather Service highlight the importance of public awareness regarding lightning safety. Individuals should always seek shelter indoors when thunderstorms arise and avoid open areas, trees, and metal structures that can attract lightning. In emergencies, large enclosed buildings or vehicles serve as temporary shelter, but individuals should avoid direct contact with metal parts. Staying informed about weather changes is crucial to prevent injuries and fatalities related to lightning strikes.
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