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Florida Lightning Strikes: 3 Injured in One Day

by Emma Walker – News Editor

Lightning Strikes Three People in New Smyrna Beach,Florida

New Smyrna Beach, FL – A series of lightning strikes impacted three individuals in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, on Friday, prompting safety concerns as the summer storm season intensifies. One person was hospitalized following a strike on the beach, while two others were affected at a local golf course.

Beachgoer Struck by lightning While in the water

Around 12:30 p.m. on Friday, a man in his 20s was struck by lightning while standing ankle-deep in the ocean. Tammy Malphurs, Director of Volusia County Beach Safety, reported the incident. First responders administered CPR and transported the man to a nearby hospital. His condition remains unkown.

Golfers Struck at Venetian Bay Golf Course

In a separate incident,two individuals were struck by lightning while golfing at the Venetian Bay golf course. Fortunately, neither person required hospitalization, according to city officials.

Did You Know? the National Weather Service recommends the “30-30 rule”: If thunder follows lightning in 30 seconds or less, seek shelter. Wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.

Florida: The Lightning Capital of the U.S.

Florida is often referred to as the “lightning capital” of the United States. The state’s geographical location and climate patterns contribute to frequent thunderstorms and lightning activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports over 2,000 lightning-related injuries in Florida over the past 20 years. despite these statistics, the odds of being struck by lightning remain low, estimated at less than one in a million.

Pro Tip: Download a reliable weather app to receive real-time lightning alerts and warnings in your area.LightningMaps.org provides real-time lightning strike data [[1]].

Lightning Strike Statistics

Location Number of People Struck Hospitalization Required
New Smyrna Beach (Beach) 1 Yes
Venetian Bay Golf Course 2 No

Safety Measures During thunderstorms

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides thorough safety guidelines for minimizing the risk of lightning strikes. These include seeking shelter indoors, avoiding contact with water, and staying away from tall objects. The NWS emphasizes that “no place outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area” National Weather Service.

Storms brought heavy showers, thunder, and lightning to Volusia county on Friday. Residents and visitors are urged to monitor weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during inclement weather.

Understanding Lightning and Thunderstorms

Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge caused by imbalances between storm clouds and the ground, or within the clouds themselves. The rapid heating of air around a lightning channel causes a shockwave we hear as thunder. Thunderstorms are most common during the warm months, especially in the afternoon and evening.

The conditions that create thunderstorms are unstable air, moisture, and lift. Unstable air refers to warm, moist air near the surface and cooler, drier air aloft. Lift can be provided by fronts, sea breezes, or terrain.When these ingredients combine,thunderstorms can quickly develop and become severe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lightning

What should I do if I am caught outside during a thunderstorm?

If you are caught outside, seek shelter in a substantial building or a hard-top vehicle. Avoid small structures, open vehicles, and being near tall objects. If no shelter is available, crouch low to the ground in a lightning crouch.

Is it safe to use electronic devices during a thunderstorm?

It is best to avoid using corded phones or electronic devices connected to electrical outlets during a thunderstorm. Wireless devices are generally safer, but it’s still advisable to limit thier use.

Can lightning strike the same place twice?

Yes, lightning can strike the same place multiple times, especially if it is a tall, isolated object. The Empire State Building, for example, is struck by lightning an average of 25 times per year.

what are the symptoms of a lightning strike?

Symptoms of a lightning strike can vary widely, from minor skin burns to cardiac arrest.Other symptoms may include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is crucial.

How can I protect my home from lightning strikes?

Install a lightning protection system, which consists of lightning rods, conductors, and grounding electrodes. These systems provide a safe path for lightning to follow, minimizing damage to the structure.

Have you ever been caught in a lightning storm? What safety tips do you follow? Share your experiences in the comments below!

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