Fact Check: "Lightning can strike far from clouds, shocking beachgoers at Lake Murray"
What We Know
On June 24, 2025, a significant lightning strike occurred near Lake Murray in South Carolina, injuring twenty people, including twelve children. According to local officials, the incident happened while the weather was described as "bright and sunny" with clouds nearby but not directly overhead (USA Today). The lightning struck the water, energizing a metal cable that surrounded the swimming area, which several individuals were holding onto at the time (USA Today).
The National Weather Service (NWS) indicated that the storm was isolated and produced minimal rainfall, suggesting that the lightning strike was unexpected given the clear conditions (Forbes). The phenomenon of lightning striking away from clouds is not uncommon and can occur due to various meteorological factors, including the presence of conductive materials like water and metal.
Analysis
The claim that lightning can strike far from clouds is supported by the evidence from the Lake Murray incident. Lightning can indeed occur in clear skies, a phenomenon often referred to as "bolts from the blue." This type of lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the nearest thunderstorm (Forbes). The NWS's report on the isolated storm conditions further corroborates this, as it highlights that the storm responsible for the lightning was not producing significant rainfall, which is often a precursor to lightning activity.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is high. The reports from USA Today and Forbes are from reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. They provide detailed accounts of the event, including eyewitness reports and statements from local officials. The scientific explanation regarding lightning behavior is also supported by meteorological research, which indicates that urban environments can influence thunderstorm development, potentially leading to unexpected lightning strikes (Forbes).
Conclusion
The claim that "lightning can strike far from clouds, shocking beachgoers at Lake Murray" is True. The evidence from the incident at Lake Murray, where lightning struck during clear weather and injured multiple individuals, supports this assertion. The scientific understanding of lightning behavior further validates that such occurrences are possible, particularly under specific meteorological conditions.
