Three Injured After Lightning Strikes St. Augustine Pier in Florida

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A weekend beach day in Florida turned frightening after a lightning strike near the St. Augustine Pier left three people injured and sent dozens of beachgoers fleeing for safety.

Local officials are now reinforcing the need to take storm warnings seriously, especially during Florida’s peak summer season.

The lightning bolt hit Saturday evening at the popular tourist destination in St. Augustine Beach, St. Johns County. According to a report from WJXT, two of the victims were taken to the hospital. One remains in critical condition, while the other suffered minor injuries. A third individual declined transport after being treated at the scene.

Fire crews quickly arrived and closed off the pier to manage the emergency and inspect for any damage. While no structural concerns have been reported yet, the pier is expected to remain closed until at least Monday.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue took to Facebook shortly after the incident, urging the public to stay away from the pier. At the same time, crews worked to prioritize safety when weather changes. “Please avoid the pier while emergency operations are underway,” the department posted. “And remember, when thunder roars, go indoors.”

Storm Safety

St. Augustine Beach Mayor Dylan Rumrell also addressed the event, reminding residents and visitors not to underestimate the danger of lightning. “There’s a big storm and lightning can hit at any time,” he told reporters, emphasizing the need to seek shelter as soon as thunder is heard.

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic. Families on the sand, surfers in the water, and vacationers strolling along the pier were all caught off guard. “I got scared, everybody was scared,” one beachgoer told WJXT, recalling how the peaceful evening suddenly became a scramble for safety.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), lightning strikes are more common in Florida than in any other state. The Sunshine State’s warm, humid climate often creates ideal conditions for dangerous electrical storms. So far in 2025, six lightning-related fatalities have occurred across the country, in states including Florida, North Carolina, Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.

On average, lightning kills about 20 people annually in the United States, based on figures from the NSW. Many of those deaths could be prevented with proper precautions. The NWS advises moving indoors immediately when thunder is heard. People should avoid open fields, hills, and especially water. Shelter is strongly discouraged under isolated trees or near cliffs and rocky overhangs.

The St. Augustine Pier has long been a central spot for both tourists and locals. Saturday’s event was a stark reminder that even a quick stroll on the beach can turn dangerous in minutes when storms roll in.