A reported lightning strike at a South Carolina lake injured 20 people on Tuesday, according to fire officials.
According to Lexington County Fire Chief Kyle Minick, first responders assessed eight adults and 12 minors for electrocution after receiving reports of a lightning strike hitting the water.
Twelve patients were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, according to a statement from the County of Lexington. Every patient is expected to recover.
The National Weather Service’s preliminary storm report indicates that lightning struck around 4:43 p.m.
Lexington County’s fire, sheriff, and emergency medical service agencies all responded to Dominion Beach Park at Dreher Dam.
“Strong relationships with other local agencies played a critical role in ensuring a quick, coordinated response, allowing first responders to assess patients efficiently and provide the best possible care,” according to the county’s statement.
Dominion Beach Park is expected to reopen on Wednesday following safety assessments.
Last week, a 15-year-old boy was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm in Manhattan as a fast-moving storm approached. The boy is expected to recover, but he was hospitalised for second-degree burns on his torso and legs.
