Tragic end of the storm in Žaljska: 46-year-old man killed by lightning strike

A tragic incident occurred on Thursday night in Malé Pirešice near Petrovče on the Žalec region, where a 46-year-old man was killed by lightning during a sudden storm. The victim, who had taken shelter under a small tree with another man, was struck by lightning just before midnight. Despite immediate assistance, he succumbed to his injuries on-site. The second man was transported to Celje Regional Hospital, where medical staff confirmed he sustained less severe injuries. The storm system, which originated from the west and moved eastward through Slovenia, intensified significantly in the late evening. According to data from the automatic meteorological station operated by ARSO in Celje, temperatures dropped by four degrees Celsius within half an hour, and rainfall reached 16.1 millimeters, equivalent to approximately 16 liters per square meter, in that time. The strongest gust of wind recorded reached 63 kilometers per hour. By morning, the total rainfall amounted to 36.3 millimeters. The tragedy unfolded precisely as the most intense part of the storm approached. Lightning strikes can occur even when thunderstorms seem distant, making it impossible to predict exact locations. Trees, despite offering temporary shelter from rain, pose a significant risk because they can conduct electrical currents, potentially harming anyone nearby. This makes seeking refuge under trees one of the most dangerous decisions during a storm. The safest options during such weather conditions include enclosed buildings or vehicles with metal frames. If these are unavailable, individuals should move away from exposed areas, including open fields, fences, and isolated trees. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States recommend continuing outdoor activities only after at least 30 minutes have passed since the last heard thunderclap. This rule is based on the principle that if thunder is audible, lightning could still strike nearby. While the probability of being struck by lightning is extremely low, the risks vary depending on the frequency of storms, location, and how long someone spends outdoors. Slovenia lies on one of the more lightning-prone regions in Europe. The SCALAR Electro-Institute's Milan Vidmar system records tens of thousands of lightning strikes annually in the country. Areas particularly prone to lightning include the Karst and Savinja Alps, Maribor Hills, and the Slovenian coast. Lightning has claimed lives in Slovenia multiple times. In August 2022, two people were killed by lightning, one a citizen of Slovakia on a hillside beneath Triglav and another a 44-year-old man from Vrhnik near Slavnik. In July 2019, a 48-year-old man died while preparing dinner near his home in Bonini near Kopře. An investigation revealed traces of lightning damage on nearby trees. In the summer of 2016, a 62-year-old man was killed while working in a field in Dombrava near Nova Gorica. In May 2012, a family on an evening walk near St. Spirit in the vicinity of Škofja Loka was struck, resulting in the death of the father and injuries to his wife and daughter. Although most people survive lightning strikes, they can suffer cardiac arrest, breathing difficulties, burns, nerve damage, and other consequences that may not be immediately visible. Victims often require emergency care and may face long-term health issues. Awareness and preparedness remain crucial in minimizing the risks associated with lightning strikes during severe weather.