Man in life-threatening condition after lightning strike while jet skiing near Fort De Soto
A man was hospitalised in life-threatening condition after he was reportedly struck by lightning while riding a jet ski near Fort De Soto in Tierra Verde, Florida, on Saturday evening, 29 August.
Deputies with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area at about 6.35pm after receiving a report that a jet ski rider had been struck. The incident was reported near the northern end of Fort De Soto Park.
The man was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. His identity and age have not been released, and authorities have not provided an update on his condition.
The circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether the jet ski was damaged or whether anyone else was involved, remained unclear. The sheriff’s office said no further information was immediately available.
The National Weather Service warns that people should leave the water and seek shelter as soon as thunderstorms threaten. It advises remaining in a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard.
