Florida, Texas and California top the list for the most damage caused by lightning strikes.
WARESBORO, Ga. – Two teens are dead following a complex of thunderstorms that tore through southern Georgia Thursday evening, producing dangerous lightning that proved deadly.
According to the Ware County Sheriff’s Office, the teens were standing outside their car near a lake when a lightning bolt struck them.
Deputies said that by the time paramedics arrived, both victims had already succumbed to their injuries.
The mayor of Waycross, Georgia, released a heartfelt statement on the loss of the two young men, both recent high school graduates.
“We mourn with profound grief the tragic passing of our own Joey Nelson and Randall Martin III, who lost their lives on July 10, 2025, when they were hit by lightning after a summer storm. Joey Nelson, a graduate of the Class of 2024 from Ware County High School, and Randall Martin III, a member of the Class of 2025, were both beloved members of the Ware County Gators football team. Their dedication, sportsmanship, and energetic spirits left an indelible mark on their teammates, coaches, and the entire Waycross community,” Dr. Michael-Angelo James said.
Lightning strike in Southeast Georgia kills two on 7/10/2025
(FOX Weather)
3 BEACHGOERS INJURED BY LIGHTNING STRIKE ON FOURTH OF JULY ALONG FLORIDA’S GULF COAST
No other injuries were reported during the storm and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading the probe into the deaths, which have shocked the local community.
According to the National Lightning Safety Councilthe two fatalities mark the seventh and eighth lightning-related deaths in the U.S. this year, with previous incidents mostly occurring in the Plains and the Southeast.
The council notes that about half of all lightning fatalities in 2025 have been related to fishing, which continues to rank as one of the most dangerous activities when thunderstorms are nearby.
Between 2006 and 2024, at least 42 people were killed while fishing, underscoring the risk posed by thunderstorms and the warm summer weather.
National Lightning Safety Council deadly dozen list
(FOX Weather)
WHAT IS HOTTER: LIGHTNING OR FIREWORKS?
Other common activities that contribute to lightning deaths include boating, camping, cycling and yardwork.
Fortunately, lightning-related fatalities have been on a steady decline across the United States, thanks to improved awareness and detection technology.
In 2023, 14 people were killed by lightning, nearly all of whom were participating in outdoor activities.
The number dropped slightly to 13 in 2024, and so far in 2025, eight fatalities have been reported.
