Two people were flown to George Regional Hospital in Utah on Monday after being struck by lightning while visiting the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, according to the National Park Service.
IN a statement released Tuesday, authorities said two women — ages 22 and 23, one from the Netherlands and one from Australia — suffered “sustained injuries” in the lightning strike as they stood near the edge of the famous Horseshoe Bend, along the Colorado River in Arizona.
“Classic Air Medical and the City of Pages Fire Department responded quickly to assist the National Park Service Rangers with on-site patient care,” the statement said. “Both victims were flown to St. George Regional Hospital in Utah by Classic Air Medical helicopters.”
Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River is seen in an undated photo.
NPS
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is located on the Utah-Arizona state line. The National Park Service warned that thunderstorms “are most common and severe” during the monsoon season for both states, typically mid-June through September in Arizona and July through September in Utah.
“If you hear thunder, you are at risk of being struck by lightning and should immediately seek shelter in a vehicle or building,” the National Park Service said. “Visitors are advised to exercise caution when visiting exposed outdoor areas and be aware of changing weather conditions.”