On Tuesday evening, lightning struck a beach near Lake Murray in South Carolina, injuring twenty people, including twelve children and six adults. Two individuals chose to leave the scene on their own, while others were transported to local hospitals with injuries that officials deem non-life-threatening. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. during an otherwise hot and sunny day, despite a passing storm cloud that brought no rain.
The Lexington County Fire Service, along with the Irmo Fire District, Lexington County Emergency Medical Services, and the Sheriff’s Department, responded to the situation. Specific details regarding the ages of the injured and the severity of their injuries were not immediately available, as stated by Lexington County spokeswoman Vanessa Diaz.
The strike occurred at the Dreher Shoals Dam, located within the Lake Murray Public Park, which is owned by Dominion Energy. The park was closed to the public following the incident but was scheduled to reopen on Wednesday. Requests for comments from Dominion Energy received no immediate response.
Officials highlighted the unpredictable nature of summer thunderstorms, noting how quickly conditions can change, potentially putting beachgoers at risk. The community remains alert to similar weather phenomena as safety protocols are reassessed. Overall, while the injuries were serious enough to require medical attention, they did not pose a threat to life, providing some relief amid the distressing event.
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