3 Struck By Lightning In Montana: One In ICU

According to an article from KRTV a coach and two soccer players were on the soccer field at Glacier High School in Kalispell on Monday, August 19th when they were struck by lightning.

Emergency responders arrived just before 6:00 pm and the 3 people were brought to Logan Health.

One player is reported to be brought to the Intensive Care Unit initially.

READ MORE: Most Extreme Weather Conditions In Montana

via GIPHY

School officials are staying in contact with families involved and according to KRTV the Glacier High School athletic director Mark Dennehy said they have a safety protocol they did follow, and that during the storm practice was delayed 30 minutes after the last lightning strike.

No other details have been released about the identities of those involved.

What Are The Chances Of Being Struck By Lightning?

Vaisala Weather tracks the number of lightning strikes every year in America. According to their 2023 report, there were over 4 million total lightning strikes in 2023 in Montana.

These strikes reported were only ones considered as, "cloud to ground lightning strikes."

According to the NWS, "Lightning kills about 20 people each year in the United States and hundreds more are injured." They also say that those who have been struck can be stuck with lifelong neurological concerns.

READ MORE: Montana Weather Map Color Means Danger

With the increase in evening thunderstorms in Great Falls and all of north central Montana, it is important to always check out the National Weather Service for information about storms in your area.