June 27, 2025

Lightning Strikes Injure 20 at Lake Murray Beach

News Summary

A lightning strike at Lake Murray Beach injured 20 individuals, including 12 children and 8 adults. Emergency responders attended to them, with some hospitalized. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as swimmers experienced sudden pain. Local officials closed the beach for safety assessments, reminding visitors of the importance of awareness during storms.

South Carolina experienced a traumatic event on Tuesday evening when a lightning strike at Lake Murray Beach injured a total of 20 individuals. Emergency responders received calls around 5 p.m. about the incident, which occurred near the Dreher Shoals Dam, a location owned by Dominion Energy.

Among the injured, 12 were children and 8 were adults. Of these, 12 individuals were transported to local hospitals to receive treatment for non-life-threatening injuries, while an additional 8 people were treated on-site. Two individuals chose to leave the scene independently following the strike, and fortunately, none of the injuries are deemed life-threatening.

According to reports from witnesses present at the beach, conditions were described as “super hot and sunny” prior to the strike, though a storm cloud passed over the area moments before the incident took place. The Irmo Fire District later confirmed that the lightning had energized metal lines that were connected to buoys, which several swimmers were holding onto at the time.

Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene as the lightning struck; individuals in the water experienced sudden sharp pain and confusion, prompting many to scramble out of the water in distress. One of the victims, who experienced temporary numbness on one side of her body, was hospitalized overnight for monitoring after her symptoms intensified. Although she expressed feelings of being lucky to have survived, she was discharged the following morning.

Among the injured was a pregnant friend of one victim, who also received medical attention but was discharged later that same day. As of Wednesday afternoon, two children remained hospitalized but were reported to be in good condition.

Following the incident, local officials announced that the beach area was closed for safety assessments. However, it is set to reopen on Wednesday. Officials are emphasizing the need for heightened awareness during impending storms, especially in recreational areas such as beaches, to ensure the safety of visitors.

Lightning strikes can have devastating consequences, and it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant about weather conditions, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities during the summer months. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of weather patterns and the need for preparedness in such environments.

Lake Murray Beach is a popular spot for families and individuals looking to enjoy the water and sunshine, and this event highlights the importance of safety and awareness during sudden weather changes.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.