Terrifying lightning strikes Philipsburg Boardwalk, injures five raising safety concerns

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten—A lightning bolt struck the Boardwalk in Philipsburg injuring five people, including several tourists, during severe weather on Tuesday afternoon. The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) and Ambulance Department were dispatched to the scene at 1:15 pm, where they rendered aide upon arrival.

First responders determined that the lightning had hit five people. Due to the severity of their injuries, three of the victims were immediately rushed to St Maarten Medical Center for treatment while two others sustained lesser injuries and were treated at the scene.

The incident has shaken the public with fear and safety concerns for public in severe weather, especially in case of many locals and tourists visiting open surroundings like the well-liked Philipsburg Boardwalk.

Authorities have stated that open and high places can be dangerous during the prevailing thunderstorm and have urged the public in general, to take shelter indoor during thunderstorms if there is frequent lightning.

In a statement, the KPSM called on both residents and visitors to be very careful as they experience bad weather. “It is necessary to take cover inside and not stay in open spaces so as to avoid any potential risks of being hit by lightning,” stated the statement.

The police and emergency services are still in the process of monitoring the casualties, whilst providing the necessary assistance to victims’ families. In addition, local authorities continue to collaborate with staff members of the Sint Maarten Meteorological Department in a trial to disseminate full and accurate weather conditions and safety information to the public.

The community is left reeling from the sudden and terrifying turn of events, and the hearts and prayers of many go out to all that have been impacted. Citizens were advised to check local stations for information on the victims and to hear safety tips as they await further info from the weather bureau.

This is just one of the many things we don’t usually have control over, and neither do the scientists, engineers and authorities in charge, and thus, the citizens need to be responsible for their own safety during such turbulent conditions.