In 2025, there were 21 reported deaths from lightning across the country with two already reported this year. As lightning safety awareness week kicks off, meteorologist Chris Vagasky spoke to FOX Weather about how to stay safe during severe storms.
CELEBRATION, Fla. — A 20-year-old man from Michigan died after a lightning strike in Celebration, Florida, on Tuesday, according to local police.
The Osceola Sheriff’s Office said bystanders were performing CPR on Matthew Eric Jenkins behind a hotel downtown after a lightning strike was seen nearby.
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FILE – A lightning bolt strikes the ground in Orlando, Florida on Aug. 6, 2025.
(FOX Weather)
Jenkins was pronounced dead at the hospital. Police said they received the emergency call at 6:25 p.m.
An official cause of death has not been released by the medical examiner.
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According to the National Lightning Safety Council, 14 people have been killed by lightning in 2026 and lightning can strike the ground as much as 10 miles away from the thunderstorm from which it originates.
The National Weather Service (NWS) office forecast widespread showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday, with possible lightning, but a Severe Thunderstorm Watch was not in effect.
