A lightning strike at a popular beach area on Lake Murray in South Carolina left 20 people injured Tuesday afternoon, prompting a rapid emergency response and temporary beach closure.
The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. at Dominion Energy’s beach park near the Dreher Shoals Dam, also known locally as the Lake Murray Dam. According to Lexington County officials, the lightning struck a metal buoy and cable line used to mark the designated swimming area. Several beachgoers were reportedly in contact with the line at the time, which may have transmitted the electrical current through the water.
Emergency personnel from the Lexington County Fire Service, Irmo Fire District, EMS, and the county sheriff’s office quickly arrived on the scene. Eight adults and twelve children were evaluated for symptoms consistent with electrical exposure. Eighteen individuals were transported to nearby hospitals, all with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Witnesses and officials noted that the weather had been sunny and hot leading up to the strike, with only a single storm cloud visible overhead. There was no rainfall in the area when the lightning occurred.
Following safety inspections, Dominion Energy announced the beach is expected to reopen by Wednesday. Authorities emphasized the unpredictable nature of lightning and urged visitors to seek shelter at the first sign of changing weather.
