Seven youth hikers were rushed to hospitals in Utah after being struck by lightning while hiking on a mountain trail. The incident occurred on Saturday, June 27th, as the group of hikers was making their way up Mount Rainier.
The injured hikers, aged between 15 and 18 years old, were all part of a church youth group from Salt Lake City. According to officials, they were about halfway through their hike when a sudden storm brought heavy rain and lightning strikes. While trying to take shelter under some trees, the group was hit by a bolt of lightning, causing injuries to all seven hikers.
The group was quickly rescued by local search and rescue teams and airlifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. As of now, all seven hikers are reported to be in stable condition but are being closely monitored for any further complications.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by sudden thunderstorms while hiking in mountainous areas. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when planning a hike:
- Always check weather forecasts before setting out on a hike.
- Avoid hiking during thunderstorms or if there is a possibility of bad weather.
- If you do get caught in a storm, try to find shelter in a low lying area rather than under tall trees.
- Stay away from metal objects and water bodies during lightning strikes.
- It is important to take proper precautions and be prepared for any emergencies while hiking in the mountains.
While this incident was certainly scary for these young hikers, it serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of search and rescue teams who risk their own lives to help those in need. Our thoughts are with the injured hikers and we hope for their speedy recovery. And remember, always stay safe when venturing out on your next outdoor adventure.
