In a harrowing incident on Saturday, May 3, 2025, two German tourists were struck by lightning while hiking in the picturesque Bohemian Switzerland region of the Czech Republic. The couple sought shelter under a tree during a sudden and severe thunderstorm, which ultimately led to a life-threatening situation.
The tourists were traversing the Tyssaer Wände area, located about 40 minutes by car from Dresden, when the storm hit. They attempted to find refuge from the downpour but were tragically caught in the storm's fury. A lightning bolt struck the woman directly in the chest, causing severe burns and injuries.
According to a press release from the Czech mountain rescue service, another group of German hikers discovered the injured couple shortly after the incident. They described the pair as "strongly disoriented" and in need of immediate assistance. The hikers escorted them to a nearby rest area named "U křížku" ("At the Cross") and alerted emergency services.
Miroslav Račko, the head of the regional mountain rescue team, reported that both tourists exhibited burns on their chests consistent with a lightning strike. "After the initial examination, we found burns in the chest area of both tourists. Lightning entry points were clearly identified based on burn holes in their clothing," Račko explained.
The man, who was also injured, complained of severe facial pain and visual disturbances in one eye. Emergency responders quickly transported both individuals to a hospital in Ústí nad Labem, approximately 15 kilometers away. The woman sustained moderate injuries, while the man’s injuries were classified as severe.
This incident underscores the dangers of hiking during thunderstorms, particularly in mountainous regions. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute had issued a severe weather warning for the weekend, alerting residents and visitors to the possibility of heavy thunderstorms accompanied by torrential rain, hail, and strong winds.
In light of this event, the mountain rescue service has reiterated the importance of safety precautions for hikers. Some essential tips include:
- Seek Shelter Early: As soon as thunder is heard, hikers should leave exposed areas such as peaks and ridges and find safety in a building or vehicle.
- Avoid Trees: Standing under isolated trees or at the forest's edge can be dangerous, as lightning tends to strike tall objects.
- Crouch Down: If no shelter is available, hikers should crouch down with feet close together, arms wrapped around their legs, and heads lowered to minimize exposure.
- Remove Metal Objects: Hikers should take off metallic items like trekking poles or metal-framed backpacks, as these can attract lightning.
- Maintain Distance: Keeping at least three meters away from other individuals can help reduce the risk of step voltage injuries.
This incident is not an isolated case; German hikers have frequently found themselves in perilous situations in mountainous areas. In a separate incident in the Tyrol region, a 33-year-old woman fell while lost on a snowfield and was able to rescue herself despite her injuries. In another case, a German hiker abandoned his exhausted companion at nearly 2000 meters altitude, only for the latter to be rescued hours later by another climber.
The recent thunderstorm that struck the region resulted in multiple emergency calls and interventions, highlighting the storm's severity. In Germany, similar weather conditions caused fallen trees, fires, and blocked roads, resulting in injuries to several individuals.
As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, the importance of being prepared and informed cannot be overstated. Hikers are encouraged to check weather forecasts and equip themselves with maps and emergency supplies before embarking on their journeys.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Czech mountain rescue service has emphasized the need for hikers to stay updated on weather conditions using mobile apps and to exercise caution during outdoor activities, especially in the face of severe weather warnings.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and the importance of safety measures when enjoying the great outdoors. The recovery of the two injured tourists will be closely monitored, and their experience may prompt others to heed warnings and prioritize safety while hiking.
