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American survives lightning strike, describes terrifying moment of impact

A US man who was struck by lightning has recounted the harrowing experience, detailing the instantaneous nature of the incident. Thomas Fahmy said he witnessed a brilliant flash before collapsing to the ground.

LSN World News · 3 September 2026

American survives lightning strike, describes terrifying moment of impact

Thomas Fahmy has offered a firsthand account of surviving a lightning strike, describing the moment as nothing short of horrifying. According to Fahmy, the incident occurred with startling speed—he recalled seeing a bright white flash immediately before losing his footing and falling to the ground.

Lightning strikes remain a significant weather-related hazard, with victims often sustaining severe injuries or fatalities. The speed at which lightning travels—reaching temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun—means survivors frequently have limited time to react or comprehend what is occurring.

Fahmy's recollection underscores the sudden and overwhelming nature of such encounters. Medical experts note that lightning strike survivors may experience a range of complications, including cardiac arrhythmias, neurological damage, and severe burns, depending on the voltage and duration of exposure.

The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns for individuals in areas prone to thunderstorms and the importance of seeking shelter during electrical weather events. Fahmy's survival represents one of the fortunate outcomes, as approximately one in ten lightning strike victims do not survive their injuries.