Lightning Strikes Injure Three in St. Augustine

On Saturday night, in St. Augustine, Florida, three individuals were struck by lightning while enjoying a summer evening at the beach. It’s a popular spot for vacationers, and the sudden storm caught many by surprise.

Two of the victims were taken to the hospital, with one in serious condition and the other sustaining minor injuries. Interestingly, the third person chose not to seek medical attention.

In the aftermath, the pier was closed for safety inspections, and firefighters responded to assist those hurt. Thankfully, operations are expected to resume by Monday.

Officials urged the public to exercise caution during thunderstorms. A St. John’s County firefighter took to social media, reminding everyone to seek shelter during storms and avoid areas near the ocean when lightning is present.

Mayor Dylan Lumrell echoed this advice, emphasizing the need for people to find cover at the first sign of danger. “There’s a big storm; lightning can strike at any moment,” he’s quoted as saying.

Witnesses described a scene of panic, with beachgoers, surfers, and swimmers quickly leaving the area. “I was scared, everyone was scared,” recounted one person who witnessed the strike.

According to the National Weather Service, there were six fatalities due to lightning strikes in 2025 across various states, including Florida and North Carolina. On average, around 20 deaths occur each year from such incidents in the United States.

To prevent injuries, the National Weather Service advises people to avoid open areas, high ground, and anything conductive during thunderstorms. Staying indoors is crucial, and, well, maybe just wait out the storm.