Utah Youth Group Members Hospitalized After Lightning Strike During Hiking Trip

On Thursday, June 27, a group of young hikers from Salina, Utah, belonging to the Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints, experienced a frightening incident during their hike in the eastern part of Sevier County. The group, consisting of 50 children, was caught in a sudden rainstorm around 1:45 p.m. local time. As the rain poured down, a lightning strike hit the ground near the hikers, causing an electric shock sensation among the children due to the pooled rainwater.

Medical Concerns and Hospitalizations

Following the lightning strike, seven members of the youth group were identified as having "some medical concerns due to electrocution." They were promptly transported to Salina hospitals by ambulance for treatment of their injuries. Additionally, two of the children displayed more severe symptoms and were airlifted to the Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi. Although specific details about their symptoms were not disclosed, the remaining five injured individuals were taken to two other hospitals for medical attention.

Recovery and Reunion

Fortunately, officials have confirmed that none of the children taken to hospitals are facing life-threatening injuries. The rest of the group was safely escorted back to Salina, where they were joyfully reunited with their parents. It is worth noting that none of the children who were not hospitalized reported any medical issues.