In brief
Thomas Fahmy was walking to the dentist in Staten Island when a sudden bright flash of lightning struck him, knocking him to the ground. In a personal account he described the experience as “horrific” and said it was the most intense sensations he’d ever felt. A nearby resident called 911 and Fahmy was taken to hospital where he received treatment and was released with no serious injuries. The incident underscores lightning’s danger and the importance of shelter during a storm.
Thomas Fahmy was walking to the dentist in Staten Island on 27 August when a sudden, bright white flash struck him, plunging him to the ground. In a statement to CBS News, the 45‑year‑old said he had never felt the sensations he described as “horrific.”
Within minutes, a local resident called 911. Fahmy was transported to a hospital where he received treatment. He left the facility with no serious injuries, though he felt the shock of the event left a lasting impression.
The incident highlights the unpredictable danger of lightning, particularly in areas like New York City where sudden storms can bring intense strikes to unsuspecting walkers. It also underscores the importance of quickly seeking shelter and calling emergency services when struck.
Source: BBC News
