In recent weeks, a series of serious and fatal lightning incidents have occurred in Florida, Utah, and Montana, reigniting the need for continued awareness and safety measures. While the United States has seen a significant drop in lightning-related deaths over the past two decades, preventable tragedies still occur every year, especially during the summer months when people spend more time outdoors. As the school year begins and fall sports keep student-athletes outside, it becomes crucial to educate and remind individuals about the potential dangers of lightning strikes.

So far this year, nine lightning-related deaths have been reported, emphasizing the importance of increased awareness and precautionary measures. By mid-August, the country has typically witnessed an average of 18 lightning-related fatalities over the past ten years. The victims of the most recent incidents were individuals engaged in outdoor sports or activities at the time when they were struck by lightning.

One such incident involved a heartbreaking loss of a 16-year-old girl, Ashley King from St. Petersburg, Florida. Nearly a month ago, Ashley and her three friends sought shelter under a tree during a lightning storm. Unfortunately, lightning struck the tree, and the electricity traveled through it, resulting in Ashley's death. This incident underscores a common safety misconception, as standing under trees during a lightning storm is not safe due to their tall, isolated, and pointy nature, which makes them prone to being struck by lightning.

Experts from the National Lightning Safety Council are strongly advising the public to "flee the tree," emphasizing that being dry and sheltered from rain does not guarantee safety from lightning. The only secure place during a lightning storm is inside a fully enclosed building or vehicle. Seeking shelter inside a substantial building or a vehicle offers protection due to the concept of a Faraday cage, where the electrical current from lightning travels through the metal shell of the structure or vehicle, while bypassing individuals within.

Another incident occurred in Utah, where three anglers were struck by lightning while on a boat on Bear River. Two of them managed to swim to safety, but tragically, one did not survive. It is worth noting that most lightning fatalities occur at the beach, on boats, or during fishing activities. Being on the tallest object around, such as holding a fishing rod or standing at the beach, puts individuals at a higher risk, especially when surrounded by conductive water that can easily transmit electricity.

On Monday evening, lightning struck a field at Glacier High School in Kalispell, Montana, injuring two soccer players and a coach. They were promptly taken to a local hospital, and one player remains in the Intensive Care Unit. This incident serves as a reminder that the peak lightning season might end in August, but thunderstorms can still occur during fall sports events. Chris Vagasky, a Meteorologist Lightning Data and Safety Specialist, recommends that all sports teams have a lightning safety plan, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.

Vagasky dismisses the "lightning crouch" technique, which was once taught to athletes, as it has been debunked as an effective method of avoiding lightning strikes. He clarifies that lightning can jump in significant increments, making a few feet of height difference insignificant. Instead, the focus should be on quickly seeking a lightning-safe place.

While the United States ranks relatively low in lightning fatalities compared to other countries, with a total of over 24,000 worldwide, it is essential to maintain vigilance and actively promote awareness. Lightning-related deaths have seen a decline thanks to increased awareness, with last year's reported count standing at 14 according to the National Lightning Safety Council. However, with approximately 56 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes in the US alone each year, the risk of lightning strikes should not be underestimated.

As the United States experiences an upward trend in lightning-related tragedies, it is crucial for individuals, schools, and sports organizations to prioritize lightning safety plans. By staying informed, seeking appropriate shelter, and avoiding risky outdoor activities during thunderstorms, everyone can contribute to reducing the number of preventable lightning fatalities.