Family and Boat Captain Rescued After Lightning Strike Disables Vessel

A family and boat captain were safely brought back to shore on Saturday after the vessel they were on was struck by lightning, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The incident highlights the importance of monitoring weather conditions before heading out on the water.

A family outing took a terrifying turn on Saturday when a boat captain was struck by lightning, leaving the group stuck off the Florida coast and needing to be rescued, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

Seven people were rescued from the 24-foot boat after it lost power following the lightning strike. It happened about two miles east of Cape Canaveral, the U.S. Coast Guard wrote in a post on social media.

The family and the captain were taken aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral's rescue response boat and taken to a safe haven where the captain received medical care.

The extent of the captain's injuries was unclear. According to the Cape Canaveral Coast Guard station, the boat was anchored, and its owner is working with commercial salvage for recovery operations.

A family was among seven people rescued from a disabled vessel that was left floating off the Florida coast after it and its captain were struck by lightning, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

"Bravo Zulu!" many users commented and praised the Coast Guard for the swift rescue.

The U.S. Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral said this incident is a reminder to be aware and mindful of the weather conditions before heading out on water.

"Please make sure you and your families are monitoring the weather before launching and while on the water as we approach this summer season!" the U.S. Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral wrote.

In a similar incident, the Coast Guard and a Good Samaritan rescued three mariners 1,700 miles from Bermuda after a lightning strike blew a hole in their boat. The mariners were able to make repairs and continue their journey after being towed to Bermuda.

These incidents underscore the importance of being prepared for emergencies when boating. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and be sure to have a plan in place in case of an emergency.