34-Year-Old Man Killed by Lightning Strike in Haute-Savoie
GAILLARD, HAUTE-SAVOIE – A tragic incident occurred on Thursday, June 22, when a 34-year-old man was struck dead by lightning in the middle of the street. The incident took place in Gaillard, a town near the Swiss border, during a violent storm that swept through the Alps. The victim was struck at the exit of a factory, in front of numerous witnesses.
According to the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS 74), the man was walking on the public road when he was violently struck by lightning. The incident took place shortly before 5 p.m. on Rue de l’Industrie, in front of the Delpharm group factory, which specializes in drug manufacturing.
Eyewitnesses reported that the man was leaving his company with colleagues when he opened his umbrella, and lightning struck him. The shocking incident left many witnesses in a state of shock.
The SDIS 74 reported that ten people who witnessed the lightning strike received care from the department’s medico-psychological emergency unit, which is attached to the Samu.
The tragedy occurred while Haute-Savoie was on an orange storm alert since the beginning of the afternoon. Severe bad weather affected the region, particularly in the areas of the Annecy basin and the Arve. The SDIS 74 stated that nearly 160 firefighter interventions were underway, mainly for water pumping, fallen trees, and damaged roofs and tiles. Although the situation is currently stabilizing, authorities have warned that trees and roofs may be weakened, urging the population to exercise caution.
In other incidents caused by the storm, a tree fell on a gas tank in Villaz, requiring the fire brigade to secure the installation. In Cranves-Sales, a tree fell on a car, resulting in six people, including five children, being transported to the hospital. Additionally, in Saint-Pierre-en-Faucigny, approximately 600 square meters of a college’s roof were torn off, and damage caused by the heavy precipitation was recorded inside.
The tragic death of the 34-year-old man serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by thunderstorms and the importance of taking necessary precautions during severe weather conditions.
What steps are local authorities taking to determine the exact cause of the lightning strike in this tragic incident?
Region.
The victim was identified as a local resident, whose name has not been released to the public. Eyewitnesses reported that the man was walking along the street when the lightning struck him suddenly. Despite prompt medical assistance, the man succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Local authorities, including police and emergency services, were immediately alerted to the incident. They quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and initiate an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. As part of the investigation, authorities will examine weather conditions and gather any available video footage from nearby surveillance cameras to determine the exact cause of the lightning strike.
The incident left the community in shock and mourning. Friends and family of the victim came together to offer condolences and support during this difficult time. The local mayor expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended sympathies to the victim’s loved ones.
Lightning strikes are a relatively rare occurrence but can be deadly. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of their surroundings during storms and take appropriate precautions, such as seeking shelter indoors or staying away from tall objects and open spaces. Lightning can travel through the ground, metal objects, and even bodies of water, making it important to avoid risky behavior during thunderstorms.
As authorities continue their investigation into this tragic incident, the community will undoubtedly come together to support one another and remind each other of the importance of safety during severe weather conditions
How tragic! Lightning strikes are such unpredictable and dangerous phenomena. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
What a tragic and unexpected event. My thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the man who lost his life in this devastating lightning strike. Stay safe during storms, everyone.