LAKE MURRAY – A sudden lightning strike injured 20 people at the Lake Murray Public Park near the Dreher Shoals Dam around 5 p.m. on Monday, June 24.
Emergency officials say the lightning bolt came from a random storm cloud on an otherwise sunny afternoon, striking the water and causing injuries to swimmers and park visitors nearby.
Eighteen individuals — including 12 children and 6 adults — were taken to area hospitals. All injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
Emergency response teams from the Lexington County Fire Service, Irmo Fire District, Lexington County EMS, and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department quickly arrived on the scene to provide aid.
Authorities remind residents and visitors that lightning can strike even when skies appear clear and urge everyone to take caution when storms are in the forecast or when thunder is heard nearby.
