On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, lightning struck Dominion Beach Park, located on Lake Murray near Dreher Shoals Dam in Lexington, South Carolina.
The incident occurred around 4:43 p.m., affecting a group of 20 people, including 12 children, who were enjoying a sunny day in the swimming area of the park, triggering the alarm.
Details of the lightning incident on the beach
According to local authorities, the lightning struck the water and electrified a metal cable with buoys that delimited the swimming area.
Several people were attached to the cable or swimming nearby when the impact occurred.
The Irmo Fire Department described the situation as “a big scare” and expressed relief that the injuries were not more serious.
Initially, 18 people were reported to have been transported to local hospitals, but it was later confirmed that 12 individuals, including children, were hospitalized.
All injuries were considered non-fatal, and those affected are expected to make a full recovery.
Weather conditions and previous warnings
The day of the incident was hot and sunny, with no obvious signs of a storm in the immediate area.
However, the National Weather Service had issued a special warning five minutes before impact, warning of a thunderstorm with possible wind gusts of up to 50 mph in western Lexington County, South Carolina.
This type of lightning, known as “clear sky lightning”, can originate several kilometers away from the storm and reach areas where the sky appears to be clear.
Meteorologist Matt Gropp explained that this was one of the first lightning strikes of the storm, which took those present at the lake by surprise.
Emergency response and park reopening in South Carolina
Emergency crews, including Lexington County Fire Service, Irmo Fire District, EMS and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office, responded quickly to the incident.
Dominion Beach Park was temporarily closed for safety assessments and was scheduled to reopen the following day after receiving authorization from the appropriate authorities.
La coordinación eficiente entre las agencias permitió una evaluación y atención médica oportuna a los afectados
Importance of safety in thunderstorms
Buzzy
This incident highlights the need to take precautions even on seemingly clear days.
Experts recommend that, upon hearing thunder or receiving weather warnings, people seek immediate shelter in enclosed structures or vehicles.
Avoiding open areas, bodies of water and metal objects is crucial to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
For the Hispanic community in the United States, it is essential to be informed about safety measures for adverse weather conditions and to follow the recommendations of local authorities and meteorological services.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
