Lightning Incident at St. Augustine Pier

On Saturday night, a lightning strike at the St. Augustine Pier in Florida resulted in injuries to three individuals, turning a summer beach day into a scene of emergency. The popular beach destination was bustling with visitors when the unexpected weather event occurred, causing panic among beachgoers.

Injuries and Emergency Response

According to reports from WJXT, two of the injured were transported to the hospital. One victim is in critical condition, while another sustained minor injuries. A third person declined medical transport despite being struck. In response to the incident, fire crews promptly closed the pier to attend to the injured and conduct a thorough inspection for any structural damage. The pier is anticipated to reopen on Monday.

Safety Warnings and Public Advisories

St. John’s County Fire Rescue issued a public advisory via Facebook, urging people to avoid the pier during emergency operations and reminding them of the importance of seeking shelter during thunderstorms. “When thunder roars, go indoors,” they emphasized. St. Augustine Beach Mayor Dylan Rumrell also advised residents to remain vigilant and seek shelter if thunder is heard, highlighting the unpredictable nature of storms.

Public Reaction and Witness Accounts

The lightning strike caused widespread panic among beachgoers, swimmers, and surfers, many of whom rushed to their vehicles for safety. Witnesses described the scene as frightening, with one individual stating, “I got scared, everybody was scared.”

National Weather Service Recommendations

The National Weather Service has reported six lightning strike fatalities across various states in 2025, including Florida. They advise people to avoid high ground and isolated trees during thunderstorms and to stay away from bodies of water and conductive materials.

By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce their risk of being struck by lightning during severe weather events.