In July 2025, lightning strikes claimed two lives in New Jersey within just eight days, leaving communities in shock. A 28-year-old golfer in Hamburg and a 61-year-old archery instructor in Jackson were killed, with 14 others injured in the latter incident. Despite weather warnings, these tragedies seemed to come without warning. Why are lightning strikes so unpredictable, and how can we stay safe? These incidents highlight the dangers of summer storms and the need for better awareness.
Fatal Lightning Strikes in Hamburg and Jackson
On July 8, a 28-year-old golfer was struck and killed at the Ballyowen Golf Club in Sussex County. Just eight days later, on July 16, a lightning bolt hit the Black Knight Bowbenders archery range in Jackson, killing 61-year-old instructor Robert Montgomery and injuring 14 others, including eight children. The Jackson strike occurred at 7:07 p.m. during a Boy Scout event, with victims ranging from 7 to 61 years old. Injuries included burns and electrical sensations, with one juvenile sent to a burn center.
Why Lightning Strikes Caught Victims Off Guard
Witnesses in Jackson reported no rain or immediate thunder, only distant rumbles, before the strike. Experts suggest this could be a ground current strike, where lightning hits an object like a tree and spreads through the ground, catching people nearby. The National Weather Service notes that lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm’s center, making it hard to predict. Meteorologist Zach Cooper emphasized, “If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck.” Lack of immediate shelter and unheeded warnings likely contributed.
Context of NJ’s Deadly Summer
New Jersey’s summer of 2025 has been unusually stormy, with frequent thunderstorms compared to last year’s drought conditions. The National Weather Service reported 12 lightning deaths nationwide this year, two in NJ alone. Historically, lightning kills about 27 people annually in the U.S., with 444 deaths from 2006 to 2021. NJ’s recent incidents follow a pattern of clustered strikes, like two deaths in 2012 in Long Branch and Monmouth Beach. Other summer tragedies, like drownings, have also spiked, raising safety concerns.
Public and Official Reactions
Governor Phil Murphy expressed condolences on X, stating, “Please pray for everyone involved in this tragic incident.” Jackson Mayor Michael Reina called the archery range strike a tragedy, noting no other storm-related damage like power outages occurred. Residents and officials are now questioning why warnings weren’t acted upon. A witness’s comment about the strike “coming out of nowhere” has sparked discussions about improving real-time alerts and public education.
Broader Impact on Safety Awareness
These incidents underscore the need for better lightning safety measures. The CDC reports that 90% of lightning strike victims survive, but prevention is key. Experts urge seeking shelter indoors at the first sign of thunder, as outdoor activities like golfing or archery leave people vulnerable. NJ’s recent spate of natural disasters, including flash floods and earthquakes, highlights the importance of personal responsibility in unpredictable weather.
Lightning Safety Tips
- Seek shelter immediately when thunder is heard.
- Avoid open fields, trees, or metal objects during storms.
- Use real-time lightning maps for tracking storms.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
Conclusion
The lightning strikes in NJ this July serve as a grim reminder of nature’s unpredictability. With two lives lost and many injured, these tragedies emphasize the need for heightened awareness and quicker responses to weather warnings. Stay informed and prioritize safety during storms.
