A golfer in Venice, Florida, was seen practicing his swing as a lightning bolt struck perilously close by, prompting a stark warning from meteorologist Matt Devitt. Devitt shared the image on his Facebook page, emphasizing, "No round of golf is worth getting struck by lightning."
The photo, credited to Kathy P. McSteen and posted on Matt Devitt Weather, highlights the golfer, circled in white, seemingly oblivious to the imminent danger.
Devitt reported that a course guard intervened to escort this golfer and others back to the safety of the clubhouse.
In a nod to the classic comedy Caddyshack (1980), where Bishop Pickering is struck by lightning during a stormy golf game, Devitt added, "Remember what happened in Caddyshack? Always stay safe."
This warning comes at a time when Florida is experiencing extraordinary electrical activity.
According to data shared by Devitt, Florida surpassed one million lightning strikes in 2026, with over 200,000 strikes recorded in just one week.
Tragically, the season has already claimed at least one life: on July 4, a man was killed and three others injured after being struck by lightning while swimming near Fort Myers Beach.
Meteorologist Rob Duns from Gulf Coast News described the perilous scenario: "Every cloud-to-ground lightning strike poses a danger. Unfortunately, for those enjoying the beach, one strike proved fatal."
Golf courses are particularly hazardous during thunderstorms due to their open spaces and lack of secure shelters.
Although metal objects do not attract lightning, they can conduct electricity. Therefore, experts advise dropping golf clubs and leaving the course immediately.
Data from the National Lightning Safety Council reveals that nearly half of golf-related lightning fatalities between 2006 and 2023 involved individuals seeking refuge under trees.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that no outdoor location is safe during a storm and advises seeking shelter in a sturdy building or a hard-topped vehicle.
Understanding Lightning Risks on Florida Golf Courses
Why are golf courses particularly dangerous during lightning storms?
Golf courses are open areas with few safe shelters, making them hazardous during lightning storms. Metal objects, while not attracting lightning, can conduct electricity, increasing the risk of strikes.
What should golfers do if caught in a storm?
Golfers should immediately abandon their clubs and seek shelter in a solid building or a vehicle with a hard roof. Staying in open areas like golf courses increases the risk of being struck by lightning.
How prevalent are lightning strikes in Florida?
Florida experiences a high frequency of lightning strikes, with over a million recorded in 2026 alone. This makes it crucial for residents and visitors to be aware of the dangers and take precautions.