Archery range in New Jersey struck by lightning, resulting in one fatality and over a dozen injuries
In a tragic incident, a lightning strike claimed the life of a 61-year-old individual at an outdoor archery club in southern New Jersey on Wednesday evening. Thirteen people, including a 7-year-old, were injured in the incident.
The Black Knight Bowbenders archery club, located approximately 3 miles from Six Flags Great Adventure, was the site of the unfortunate event. According to reports, half of the injured individuals were juveniles that belonged to the Jackson Scouts Troop 280, a Scouting America-affiliated organization. The victim who died was not affiliated with Scouting America.
The injuries suffered by the victims include burns and non-specific complaints of not feeling well. All the injured individuals were transported to area hospitals. The National Weather Service advises that if you hear thunder, see lightning, or the sky looks threatening, you should head indoors as quickly as possible.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by lightning strikes, with an average of 20 people being killed by lightning per year in the U.S., and hundreds more being injured, according to data from the National Weather Service. June and August typically see a higher number of fatalities as a result of lightning strikes, according to data from the National Lightning Safety Council.
Preventing injuries or death from lightning strikes at outdoor events or locations involves a combination of awareness, preparation, and timely action. Here are some key strategies:
## Preparation and Awareness
1. **Weather Monitoring**: Use reliable weather apps or radios to stay informed about weather conditions before and during the event. This can help predict potential thunderstorms and allow for timely evacuation or postponement.
2. **Safety Plans**: Develop and communicate lightning safety plans to all participants, including how to recognize danger, where to seek shelter, and what to avoid (e.g., open fields, isolated trees, metal objects).
3. **Warning Systems**: Establish a warning system that includes alerts for nearby lightning strikes, such as sirens or public announcements.
## Safe Centers and Vehicles
1. **Buildings**: The safest places during a thunderstorm are sturdy buildings with wiring or plumbing, which create a Faraday cage effect protecting against lightning strikes.
2. **Hard-Topped Vehicles**: Fully enclosed metal vehicles with solid roofs (not convertibles or soft-top cars) are also safe.
3. **Avoid Unprotected Structures**: Avoid open structures like porches, gazebos, picnic shelters, and tents, as they offer no protection.
## Action During a Storm
1. **Seek Shelter Immediately**: If lightning is visible or thunder is heard, seek shelter right away. Use the 30-30 rule: If the time between lightning and thunder is 30 seconds or less, or if lightning is seen nearby, seek shelter immediately and wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning flash.
2. **Avoid Conductors**: Stay away from metal objects (like golf carts, bicycles, and fences) and bodies of water (including pools and beaches), as these are strong conductors of electricity.
3. **Maintain Distance in Groups**: If caught outside in a group, spread out to minimize the risk of multiple injuries if lightning strikes nearby.
4. **Gather Information**: Ensure that all participants are aware of the safest routes to shelters and the locations of emergency services.
## Post-Storm Precautions
1. **Wait Before Exiting**: Do not leave shelter until at least 30 minutes after the last lightning flash, even if the sky appears clear.
2. **Be Aware of Bolts from the Blue**: Lightning can strike from the blue sky, so be cautious even after the storm seems to have passed.
By following these guidelines, the risk of lightning injuries or fatalities can be significantly reduced during outdoor events. This incident underscores the importance of being vigilant and prepared when it comes to lightning safety.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has been briefed on the incident, and the National Weather Service is investigating the cause. The incident also follows another lightning-related fatality last week in Hamburg, New Jersey, where a 28-year-old man died after being struck by lightning while playing golf. As of the article's publication, at least 11 people have been killed by lightning in the U.S. this year.
In light of these events, it is crucial for event organizers, participants, and bystanders to prioritize lightning safety and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
The Black Knight Bowbenders archery club, located near Six Flags Great Adventure, witnessed a tragedy due to a lightning strike that resulted in the death of a 61-year-old individual and injuries to thirteen others, including juveniles from Jackson Scouts Troop 280. This incident highlights the increased risks of accidents, specifically lightning-related, during inclement weather, with data indicating that June and August often see more fatalities from lightning strikes. As a precaution, it is advised to monitor weather conditions, seek appropriate shelter, and maintain safety plans to minimize such incidents.
