WATCH: Huge lightning strike on yacht in USA marina

Amazing footage and images shared on social media (taken by Harry Minucci) shows the moment a 40 foot boat was struck by a bolt of lightning. This happened in Columbia Yacht Club, South Boston, USA in early July.

Reports suggest that the owner was not on the boat and no one was injured.

Seemingly there was a lot of electrical damage to the boat.

In July 2022, a sailing boat struck by lightning off Isle Of Wight and rescued by Yarmouth’s Severn class all-weather lifeboat. Coxswain, Howard Lester, said: “The yacht’s crew had taken appropriate safety measures before setting sail, they were wearing life jackets and had an alternative means of calling for help. Having discovered their VHF radio had been disabled, they called the coastguard by telephone on 999.”

Seven people were rescued from a 39ft fishing boat in the Gulf of Mexico, after their boat was struck by lightning in early August 2022. The skipper of the boat shared footage and details of his harrowing experience to highlight the importance of having proper safety equipment on board for every voyage. Moments prior to the lightning strike skipper Glen Rumer warned local fishing charter captain, Joshua Guy, to remove his hands from a metal cup holder he was holding – a warning that almost certainly saved his life. Guy, who was on board with his 25-week pregnant partner, was knocked momentarily unconscious as the bolt of lightning struck the outriggers and travelled through to the transom motor.

Technical Marine Supplies (TMS) recently added Sertec Marine’s lightning prevention systems to the range of products it distributes.

These are said to negate the need for lightning protection by changing the atmosphere around the craft, thus removing the physical environment required for a lightning strike to occur and are suitable for all vessels, regardless of size and design.

“Having this game changing technology recognised and approved by various insurance companies is a great endorsement for this life and vessel saving technology,” says Nick Cook, senior sales manager for TMS.

This technology will be on display for the first time at Southampton International Boat Show (16-25 September). This footage of the lightning strike on yacht in USA is bound to increase numbers looking to update their prevention systems.

marina before boat hit by lightningMarina prior to lightning strike. Image courtesy of Harry Minucci
lightning strikes boat in USA marinaAftermath of lightning strike. Image courtesy of Harry Minucci