Lightning Strike Kills Dog, Destroys Perth Man’s Clothes
In a rare and alarming incident, a lightning strike in Perth has led to a series of injuries and damage. The occurrence resulted in multiple people being struck by lightning, collapsing grids, and disrupting local transportation systems.
Incident Overview
On a Thursday morning, two schoolgirls and a retired bus driver named Michael Day were struck by lightning during a sudden thunderstorm. This storm caused significant chaos, affecting homes and the train network across Perth.
Details of the Lightning Strike
The incident involving Michael Day occurred around 10 a.m. as he walked his daughter’s dog, Messi, near Felstead Crescent in Hamersley. According to witnesses, Day was found on the ground in pain after the lightning struck a nearby tree, damaging both the tree and the surrounding grass.
Immediate Effects
- The lightning resulted in the instant death of Messi, the brown poodle.
- Day suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, including visible burns on his inner thigh and chest.
- Emergency paramedics transported him to Fiona Stanley Hospital.
- Remarkably, Day maintained a sense of humor while waiting for assistance.
Casualties and Damage
In addition to Michael Day, two female students were struck at a high school in Mount Helena. One was taken to Midland Hospital, while the other was admitted to Fiona Stanley, but later discharged.
Storm’s Impact on Perth
The storm marked the first substantial rainfall since December, with lightning igniting house fires and causing train service interruptions. Here are some statistics related to the storm’s impact:
| Event | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Fire in Meter Box | 8:35 a.m. | Ravenswood Drive, Nollamara |
| Second Fire | Approx. 9:00 a.m. | Amelia Street, Balcatta |
Nearly 3,000 homes lost power in various suburbs, including Balga and Parmelia. The storm also caused significant disruptions in the train network, with multiple lines experiencing cancellations and delays.
Expert Commentary
St John WA Operations Manager Deane Coxall noted that he had never seen three individuals struck by lightning in a single day during his 15-year career. He expressed surprise at the rarity of such events, especially in Western Australia.
Weather Outlook
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the storm was influenced by a developing west coast trough. Forecasters anticipate some shifts in wind patterns and temperatures throughout the week. Here is the upcoming Perth weather forecast:
- Thursday: Possible storm, Max 29°C
- Friday: Sunny, 20-36°C
- Saturday: Cloud clearing, 18-26°C
- Sunday: Sunny, 12-25°C
- Monday: Sunny, 14-30°C
Residents expressed frustration over the lack of advanced warning about the storm, with many unaware of the possibility of severe weather.
The entire incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature, particularly during storm season. For more updates on this incident, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.
