Deadly hike: man (42) struck by lightning on mountain

A 30-year-old tourist was struck by lightning while hiking near Mount Etna and later pronounced dead, according to local media reports. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, with emergency services confirming the man’s death after a search operation. His body was found shortly before midnight by drone during a rescue effort initiated following his disappearance. The victim, identified as a foreign tourist, was hiking in the area around Mount Etna, which lies in Sicily, Italy. The exact location of the strike has yet to be officially confirmed, though initial reports suggest he was caught in a storm that developed rapidly. Emergency responders were alerted to his absence after he failed to return to his starting point. A team of mountain rescuers launched a search, utilizing aerial drones to scan the rugged terrain. According to the regional fire department, the man was likely struck by lightning while descending the mountain. The force of the strike appears to have caused fatal injuries, as no signs of life were detected upon discovery. The body was located approximately two kilometers below the summit, in a remote section of the trail known for its steep incline and frequent weather changes. Rescue teams faced challenging conditions due to ongoing rain and low visibility. Earlier in the day, the man had contacted friends via phone, informing them of his intention to descend quickly due to an approaching thunderstorm. He last made contact around midday, after which he became unreachable. Friends and family expressed shock and concern over his sudden disappearance, with some noting that he had been planning the hike for several weeks. Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes, is known for its unpredictable weather patterns and frequent electrical storms, particularly during late summer months. Local authorities have warned hikers to exercise caution during such periods, advising against venturing into high-risk areas without proper equipment or guidance. Despite these warnings, incidents involving lightning strikes remain relatively rare but often result in severe consequences. Emergency personnel continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether the man was using appropriate safety gear and whether there were any other witnesses present. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the cause of death or the specific conditions at the time of the strike. The case is being reviewed by both local and national agencies responsible for outdoor safety and disaster response.