Seven children hiking with their Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints youth group in Salina, Utah, were hospitalized on Thursday after being struck by lightning on wet ground, according to officials.

Hiking Tragedy Unfolds

The incident occurred when the youth group was caught in a sudden rainstorm, causing water to accumulate on the ground. As the group sought shelter, a lightning bolt struck near them, sending an electric shock through approximately 50 individuals nearby, reported the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office via Facebook. Among those affected, seven children were transported to the hospital due to concerns over electrocution. While two of the hospitalized youths experienced serious symptoms, authorities reassured them that their injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.

Understanding Lightning Strikes

The likelihood of being struck by lightning stands at approximately one in 1.22 million, with fatal incidents most prevalent during the summer months. Despite recent fatalities linked to lightning strikes, including deaths in New Jersey, Florida, and Colorado earlier this year, overall lightning-related fatalities have seen a decline, reaching a record low last year.

Safety Precautions During Thunderstorms

Experts emphasize the importance of safety measures during thunderstorms, urging individuals to seek shelter indoors as soon as lightning is observed or thunder is heard. Outdoor activities should be suspended until the storm has passed entirely to minimize the risk of lightning-related accidents.

As communities reflect on the harrowing incident involving the Salina youth group, awareness of lightning safety remains paramount. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the critical need for precautionary measures in outdoor settings, especially during inclement weather conditions.