Seven members of a youth group hiking in Utah were transported to hospitals Thursday after lightning struck the ground near them.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints youth group from Salina, Utah, were in the eastern part of Sevier County around 1:45 p.m. when a light rain began and the lightning hit, Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis said in a statement.
“Approximately 50 youth felt the shock of the lightning,” Curtis said, adding that seven of the young people had “medical concerns due to the electrocution.”
Two had serious symptoms and were flown by helicopter to Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi, Utah. Five others were transported by ambulances to Sevier Valley Hospital in Richfield and Gunnison Valley Hospital in Gunnison, Curtis said.
None of the injuries were considered life-threatening, according to Curtis, who said the other hikers were returned to their families in Salina, which is 139 miles (223 kilometers) south of Salt Lake City.
Seven youth hikers were hospitalized in Utah after a lightning strike near their group during a hiking trip in the mountains. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon when a sudden thunderstorm rolled in, catching the hikers off guard.
According to officials, the group of teenagers was hiking in a remote area when lightning struck nearby, causing a chain reaction that resulted in seven of them being injured. Emergency responders were called to the scene and the hikers were airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The injuries ranged from minor burns to more serious injuries, but all of the hikers are expected to make a full recovery. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of hiking in mountainous areas during thunderstorms, and the importance of being prepared for changing weather conditions.
Hiking in the mountains can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks. Thunderstorms can develop quickly in mountainous terrain, and hikers should always be aware of the weather forecast before heading out on a hike. It is important to be prepared with proper gear, including rain jackets, extra layers, and a first aid kit.
In the event of a thunderstorm, hikers should seek shelter in a safe location, such as a sturdy building or a car. If no shelter is available, hikers should avoid open fields, tall trees, and bodies of water, which can attract lightning strikes. Instead, they should crouch down low to the ground, with only their feet touching the ground, to minimize the risk of being struck by lightning.
It is also important for hikers to stay together as a group and keep an eye out for any signs of an approaching storm. If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, hikers should immediately seek shelter and wait for the storm to pass before continuing on their hike.
While hiking in the mountains can be an exciting adventure, it is important to always prioritize safety and be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise. By following these tips and being aware of the risks associated with hiking in mountainous areas, hikers can ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.
