A day on Fort Myers Beach turned tragic Friday when a lightning strike killed at least one person and sent two others to the hospital, according to emergency crews. Bystanders and first responders tried to save lives right on the sand, but officials say one victim could not be revived.
Responders on Scene and Early Details
According to Tampa Bay 28, the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District said in a Facebook post that crews rushed to the scene after reports that multiple people had been struck. Responders arrived to find one person unresponsive, while two others were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
"When thunder roars, go indoors," the district warned in its social media post, urging people to head inside as soon as they hear thunder or see lightning. Tampa Bay 28 reported that a bystander stepped in to perform CPR and used an automated external defibrillator as crews worked the scene, but resuscitation efforts were not successful for the person who died.
Lightning Safety and What to Do
The National Weather Service stresses that "there is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area" and advises moving indoors at the first sound of thunder. The National Weather Service also recommends waiting 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before going back outside.
If someone is struck, health officials say lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge, and bystanders should call 911, start CPR if needed, and use an AED if one is available. The CDC notes that most lightning strike victims survive when they receive prompt care.
Officials asked beachgoers to steer clear of the area while crews worked and urged residents to keep an eye on changing weather reports. Authorities did not immediately release the victims' identities, and the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District and Lee County agencies said they will update the public as more information becomes available.
