A terrifying lightning strike at a popular South Carolina beach was caught on camera, showing the moment sunbathers scrambled for safety as the bolt struck dangerously close to the shore.
The dramatic footage reveals beachgoers lounging under umbrellas one second, then fleeing in panic the next as a deafening crack of lightning illuminated the sky. The strike hit mere feet from where families had been relaxing moments earlier.
Close Call Caught on Camera
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people screaming and running for cover as the thunderclap echoed across the beach. "It was like a bomb went off," one visitor recounted. "One second we're enjoying the sun, the next we're sprinting for our lives."
Weather Experts Issue Warning
Meteorologists have used the incident to remind holidaymakers of the dangers of lightning during summer storms. "When thunder roars, go indoors," warned one weather official. "This video shows exactly why you shouldn't wait until the last minute to seek shelter."
The National Weather Service reports that lightning kills an average of 20 people each year in the United States, with many more suffering life-changing injuries. Beach environments are particularly vulnerable during stormy weather.
How to Stay Safe
Weather safety experts recommend:
- Seeking shelter at the first sign of thunder
- Avoiding open areas during storms
- Waiting at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before returning outdoors
The lucky escape in South Carolina serves as a stark reminder that summer storms can turn deadly in an instant. Authorities are urging all beach visitors to stay weather-aware during the holiday season.
