Photo: Jim Damaske/Tampa Bay Times vía AP
Record-setting heatin parts of the country fueled ferocious storms, which led to a number of life-threatening lightning strikes — including one at a Florida beach that left eight people injured on Sunday afternoon.
The lightning was first spotted atClearwater beach outside Tampa around 12:42 p.m., ABC News affiliate WFTS reported.
Others who were injured in the strike are in good condition, CBS News affiliate WTSP reported — including three who were taken to Morton Plan Hospital and a fifth patient who was transported to Tampa General Hospital with burns.
Three people injured on the scene also refused transport and were not immediately identified, according to the outlet.
“They put themselves at risk, major thunderstorm going on, lightning popping every couple seconds, and they actually ran out on to the beach and were able to pull the victims into a more safe location,” Newland told WFTS.
Due to the intense weather conditions,Lifeguards had left their towers around 12:30 p.m., police said according to Fox News.
It’s not uncommon for beachgoers to stay on the sand to watch storms pass, the Clearwater Fire and Rescue department officials said to WFTS. But staying there during a can be dangerous.
“Beachgoers should take cover and go to a safe place when lightning and thunder are present,” the officials told the outlet. “As a reminder, Clearwater Fire and Rescue uses the phrase: ‘When you hear the roar, go indoor.'”
Storms at Clearwater Beach.Chris O’Meara/AP/Shutterstock
The Florida strike was one of three lightning strikes reported in the U.S. over the weekend.
Another child between the age of 5 and 6, was struck in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on Sunday, as well.Philadelphia’s NBC-10 reportedthe child was taken to the hospital in unknown condition.
source: people.com
