MOORESVILLE, N.C. — "Sparks were flying this morning" after lightning struck a metal fence at JR Motorsports in Mooresville, North Carolina Wednesday.
The lightning strike occurred around 9:24 p.m. as storms were moving through the Carolinas.
"Amazing video," WCNC Charlotte Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich said after watching surveillance video of the lightning strike.
"Because the lightning hit the fence, it traveled along the fence line, and also sparked and arched at the front gate," Panovich explained. "Lightning can travel all around the property even if it hits at another location."
Panovich called it a good safety reminder to stay indoors and away from metal objects during thunderstorms.
Luckily no one was hurt from the lightning strike Wednesday.
In 2022, 19 people died in the United States from lightning strikes. On average over the past ten years, 23 people have died annually.
For safety, officials recommend seeking shelter indoors any time lightning is possible. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter immediately.
Lightning is not a parameter for any of the storm warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Don't wait for a storm warning before seeking shelter. Lightning can occur in storms that do not prompt storm warnings.
Lightning can strike miles away from the storm which produced the lightning strike.
Contact Brad Panovich at bpanovich@wcnc.com or follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.