BE CAREFUL IN THE ELECTRICAL STORM
This past weekend, a devastating lightning strike near the town of Rand, Colorado, resulted in the tragic deaths of 51-year-old cattle rancher Mike Morgan and 34 of his cattle. The incident, reported by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, serves as a somber reminder of the powerful and unpredictable nature of lightning storms.
A Heartbreaking Incident
On Sunday, Mike Morgan was performing a routine task, feeding his herd with hay from a trailer. The peaceful moment was shattered when lightning struck, claiming his life despite immediate life-saving efforts. Morgan’s father-in-law and wife were nearby and fortunately survived the incident, but the strike also bowled over dozens more cattle that were gathered around the trailer.
The Dangers of Lightning
Lightning strikes are most common during the summer months, peaking in June. According to the National Weather Service, five of the top ten lightning days in 2023 occurred between June 14 and June 21. These intense storms typically hit areas from the edge of the Rockies, through the Middle Plains, and to the Southeast, with large thunderstorms in the Northern Plains and eastern states also contributing.
This tragic event is a stark reminder of the risks associated with lightning and the importance of taking appropriate precautions during storms.
Lightning Safety Tips
When you hear thunder rolling in, it’s crucial to seek shelter and follow these safety guidelines to minimize the risk of injury:
- Seek Shelter Indoors: The safest place during a lightning storm is indoors. Avoid staying outside or under trees.
- Avoid Using Corded Phones: Using a corded phone during a thunderstorm is one of the leading causes of indoor lightning injuries.
- Stay Away from Windows, Doors, and Porches: Being in an interior room is safest during a thunderstorm.
- Avoid Electrical Equipment and Cords: Unplug devices before the storm arrives if possible. Do not touch any electrical devices during the storm.
- Avoid Plumbing: Do not wash your hands, do dishes, take a shower or bath, or do laundry during a thunderstorm, as metal plumbing conducts electricity.
- Steer Clear of Concrete Surfaces: Lightning can travel through metal wires or bars in concrete walls and flooring, such as in basements or garages.
- Vehicle Safety: If you are in a vehicle, roll up the windows and avoid contact with metal surfaces and portable electronic devices plugged in for charging.
Reflecting on the Loss
The tragic death of Mike Morgan and his cattle has undoubtedly left a void in the community. Ranching is not just a profession but a way of life that deeply connects individuals to their land and livestock. The loss resonates beyond the immediate family, impacting friends, neighbors, and the larger agricultural community.
As we mourn this loss, it’s essential to raise awareness about the dangers of lightning and ensure that we all take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The power of nature is awe-inspiring, but it also demands our respect and caution.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Morgan family and all those affected by this heartbreaking event.
