Lightning Strike Injures 20 People at South Carolina Beach

Emergency services assist injured individuals after a lightning strike at Dominion Beach Park.

News Summary

A terrifying lightning strike at Dominion Beach Park in South Carolina injured 20 individuals, including 12 children, while they were enjoying a sunny day at the beach. Emergency services responded quickly, transporting some to local hospitals. Fortunately, the injuries are reported as non-life-threatening. The incident highlights the dangers of summer storms, reminding beachgoers to be cautious of weather changes.

Lightning Strike Injures 20 People, Including 12 Children, at South Carolina Beach

It was a sunny Tuesday evening when a sudden lightning strike turned a fun day at the beach into a scene of chaos. The frightening incident took place at Dominion Beach Park, located near the beautiful Lake Murray in South Carolina, just as families and friends were enjoying their time by the water.

Emergency services responded promptly after the alarm was raised around 5 p.m., with a total of 20 people suffering injuries from the unexpected bolt of lightning. Among those affected were 12 children and 8 adults, making this a particularly alarming situation for families enjoying a day out. Fortunately, the injuries reported are considered non-life-threatening, which certainly offers some relief amid the fear.

Of those injured, 12 were transported to local hospitals for further treatment, while 2 others received care on-site and were later released. Quick action by the Lexington County Fire Service, Irmo Fire District, Lexington County Emergency Medical Services, and Lexington County Sheriff’s Department helped ensure that prompt assistance was provided to everyone involved.

As the storm seemed to gather momentum, it was reported that the lightning strike energized a metal cable connected to the buoys surrounding the swimming area. This meant that individuals who were holding onto the cable at the time of the strike were particularly affected, leading to the unfortunate injuries. The local hospitals, including Prisma Health, have stepped up to care for the injured, with reports showing that 15 patients were treated: that’s 3 adults and 2 children at Prisma Health Parkridge, with one already discharged, and 2 adults alongside 8 children at Prisma Health Richland and Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Midlands. Among this group, 3 children remained hospitalized, while the others were still under evaluation.

Witnesses at the park described the day leading up to the incident as “super hot and sunny,” but mentioned a passing storm cloud that brought about the lightning strike without any rain. The suddenness of the event caught many off-guard, and it left families shaken but hopeful for the recovery of all those affected.

Following the event, officials decided to close the park temporarily to ensure safety. It is anticipated that the park will reopen the next day after a thorough safety assessment has taken place. In an interesting note from the Columbia National Weather Service, it was confirmed that a single lightning bolt caused the chaos, as detected by their monitoring network. Thankfully, all individuals impacted are expected to recover, but this incident serves as a critical reminder of the dangers associated with lightning, especially during outdoor activities.

As families reflect on the day, they remain hopeful for a swift recovery for all those affected. The event raises awareness about the unpredictable nature of summer storms, especially when enjoying fun outdoor activities. Safety must always come first, reminding everyone to be cautious and aware when thunderheads loom on the horizon.