Fact Check: "20 people injured by lightning strike while swimming in South Carolina beach"
What We Know
On June 24, 2025, a lightning strike at a beach near the Lake Murray dam in Lexington County, South Carolina, injured 20 people, including 12 children. According to local officials, the incident occurred around 5 p.m. on a day that was described as "bright and sunny," with clouds nearby but not directly overhead. The lightning strike energized a metal cable surrounding the swimming area, affecting those who were holding onto it and others nearby in the water. Twelve individuals were treated at local hospitals, while six others were assessed at the scene, with all injuries reported as non-life-threatening (USA Today, ABC News).
Analysis
The claim that 20 people were injured by a lightning strike while swimming in South Carolina is corroborated by multiple reliable sources. The incident was reported by major news outlets, including USA Today and ABC News, which provided consistent details about the event, including the number of injured individuals and the circumstances surrounding the lightning strike.
The credibility of these sources is high; both are well-established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The reports included direct quotes from local officials, such as Vanessa Diaz, a spokesperson for Lexington County, who provided specific details about the incident and the nature of the injuries. This adds a layer of reliability to the information presented.
Furthermore, the timing of the incident coincided with National Lightning Safety Awareness Week, which emphasizes the importance of understanding lightning safety and the risks associated with swimming during thunderstorms. This context enhances the relevance of the report and underscores the need for public awareness regarding lightning safety (USA Today, AOL).
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The claim that 20 people were injured by a lightning strike while swimming in a South Carolina beach is accurate. The incident was reported by multiple reliable sources, and the details provided are consistent across these reports. The injuries were confirmed to be non-life-threatening, and the event highlights the dangers associated with lightning in recreational areas.
Sources
- Lightning strike hits 20 people at South Carolina beach: Officials
- Video 20 people injured by lightning strike while swimming at ...
- 20 people injured in lightning strike while swimming at the beach - AOL
- 20 people injured in lightning strike while swimming at South ...
- Lightning injures 20 swimmers at South Carolina lake - AccuWeather
