A family in Illinois had a close call when lightning struck their car while they were driving on a highway. The incident occurred on Saturday evening on Route 13 in southern Illinois, just before 6 p.m. Fortunately, all three family members escaped without injury.
According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, the family reported hearing a loud noise, similar to a gunshot, just before their vehicle filled with smoke. When deputies arrived, they found the family standing outside their Ford, which had suffered significant damage from the strike.
The lightning disabled the car’s electrical system and caused an explosion, blowing apart the rear bumper and exhaust system. Debris was scattered across the roadway, and images shared by the sheriff’s office showed a small hole in the roof of the vehicle.
Despite the extensive damage, the family was unharmed. Local firefighters assisted at the scene, and the vehicle was towed away. Authorities also reported that several roads in the area were closed due to flooding, adding to the challenges of the day.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of lightning, especially during storms. The sheriff’s office urged residents to exercise caution near rising water, as it can be swifter and deeper than it appears.