Tragedies in New Jersey and Norway: Killed by Lightning

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Photo taken in Wichita. In addition to the 
cloud-to-ground lightning, the bolt cuts through a
descending downburst.

Weather tragedies occur during events large and small. Monday, a New Jersey golfer was struck by lightning and later passed away. It is important to note that even people who survive a lightning strike are often never the same. 

The photo above was taken from our Wichita home. It depicts golfer congregating near trees, presumably trying to shelter themselves from an approaching storm. This is going from bad to worse as lighting is often attracted by trees. The only safe course of action is to get off the course when you hear thunder, see lightning or a storm appears to be approaching. 


Olympic Athlete Killed By Lightning in Norway
Details are here.

How To Keep Yourself Safe

Head indoors if you hear thunderstorm or see lightning. Most lightning strikes occur outside of heavy rain. Last night, in Kansas, this cloud-to-ground lightning occurred more than 4 miles from any rain. 

If you have a quality weather radar display on your smartphone, if orange or red are moving toward your area, lightning is a threat. 


Finally, if you have an iPhone and the AccuWeather app, you will receive a notification if lightning occurs within about 25 miles. If the radar shows the storm moving in your general direction, please get off the golf course or beach. 

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