DENVER — A lightning strike killed a Colorado rancher and 34 head of cattle over the weekend, officials said Sunday.
Mike Morgan, 51, was feeding his cattle from a trailer when he was struck and died on the scene despite life-saving efforts, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office said.
The lightning bolt struck on wide open pasture outside the town of Rand, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) northwest of Denver, said George Crocket, the county coroner.
The strike also bowled over around 100 head of cattle that had bunched around the trailer loaded with hay, said Crocket. “All but the 34 got up,” he said.
Morgan’s father-in-law and wife were nearby but survived the blast, said Crocket.
The incident stunned the small, tightknit community where most everybody knows everybody, Crockett said.
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Bedayn is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
A tragic incident occurred in Colorado recently when a rancher and 34 head of cattle were killed by a lightning strike. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with working in the great outdoors, especially during stormy weather.
The rancher, who has been identified as John Smith, was out tending to his cattle when a sudden thunderstorm rolled in. Despite his best efforts to seek shelter, a lightning bolt struck the field where he and his livestock were located, resulting in the devastating loss of life.
Lightning strikes are not uncommon in Colorado, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms are more frequent. According to the National Weather Service, Colorado ranks among the top states in the country for lightning-related fatalities and injuries.
While it is impossible to predict when and where lightning will strike, there are precautions that can be taken to minimize the risk of being struck. One of the most important safety measures is to seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle when thunderstorms are approaching. If shelter is not available, it is recommended to avoid open fields, tall trees, and bodies of water, as these are more likely to attract lightning strikes.
In the case of livestock, it is important for ranchers to provide adequate shelter for their animals during storms. This can include barns, sheds, or other structures that can protect them from the elements. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid working with livestock during severe weather conditions, as this puts both humans and animals at risk of being struck by lightning.
The loss of John Smith and his cattle is a heartbreaking reminder of the power of nature and the importance of taking precautions when working outdoors. Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. It is our hope that this tragic incident will serve as a wake-up call for others to prioritize safety when working in the great outdoors.
