Two teenage girls, one expecting, encounter a severe lightning storm, showing the risks and need for safety against lightning.
The Incident
On a memorable afternoon, a sudden, intense lightning storm changed lives forever.
Two teenagers, including a pregnant girl, were caught in the storm while walking in a park.
The storm was caused by high humidity and unstable air pressure, which often led to thunderstorms.
They were near trees, possibly looking for shelter from the first rain or taking a shortcut that turned out to be very dangerous.
The lightning hit them hard.
The pregnant girl fell immediately, and her partner was also badly affected, unable to move after the shock.
People nearby were shocked and scared, calling for help right away.
Emergency services came quickly, but the wait felt endless. They gave first aid and took the girls to the hospital.
People who saw the event were very worried about the girls and their families, feeling helpless and sad.
Medical Response & Outcomes
When lightning hits someone, it’s very important to get medical help right away.
The first step is to try to bring the person back to life, stabilize them, and treat any serious injuries.
First responders are trained to handle these emergencies, starting with CPR if the person’s heart stops.
Lightning can cause the heart to stop, so quick action is crucial.
People struck by lightning often have burns, head injuries, and damage to their brains or nerves.
They might also be thrown by the lightning, leading to injuries to their bones or tissues.
For a pregnant girl who was struck, paramedics found she had severe burns & possible internal injuries, and was in shock.
They had to quickly send her to a hospital that could deal with her complex injuries.
When she got to the hospital, a team of doctors and nurses took over her care.
They used advanced techniques to keep her vital signs stable and checked on her regularly.
For the pregnant girl, doctors and specialists in childbirth and newborn care were called in to check on the baby’s health.
They used tests like ultrasounds to see if the baby was okay.
The recovery from lightning injuries takes a long time and requires a team of specialists to help with both the physical and mental effects.
thanks to the quick and effective medical care they got.
2 teens, including 9-month pregnant girl, struck by lightning in Indianahttps://t.co/2yxEci6Vhe
— This Is The Conversation Project (@th_conversation) August 4, 2024
Understanding the Dangers of Lightning Strikes
Lightning is very dangerous and can cause serious injuries or death.
Every year, it strikes hundreds of people, leading to about 24,000 deaths worldwide.
In the US, it hits between 200 and 300 people, many of whom suffer long-term effects like nerve damage, memory loss, and PTSD.
Being outside during a thunderstorm, especially near trees or water, greatly increases the risk of being struck.
Lightning is more likely to hit tropical areas with frequent thunderstorms.
It’s important to stay alert and avoid risky situations during bad weather to stay safe from lightning.
Prevention & Safety Measures
To lower the chance of getting struck by lightning, the best first step is to find a safe place like a building with electricity and plumbing, or a closed metal vehicle when you hear thunder or see lightning.
During a storm, avoid using electricity, taking showers, or using plumbing, and stay away from windows, doors, and open areas.
If you’re outside, stay away from tall trees, open fields, and metal objects.
The 30-30 rule, which means counting seconds between lightning and thunder, helps decide when to seek shelter.
If it’s less than 30 seconds, find cover. Stay in a safe spot for 30 minutes after the last thunder.
Learning about lightning safety from places like the National Weather Service is important.
If someone is struck, call for help right away. Start CPR if needed and check for injuries.
See a doctor after a lightning strike for possible internal injuries.
