A 19-year-old hiker has died after being struck by lightning while seeking shelter during a thunderstorm on Mount Timpanogos in Utah. The incident occurred early Friday morning when the hiker and nine companions were huddled inside a metal structure known as the 'Tin Shack' atop the mountain.
Authorities were alerted around 6 a.m. on Friday. Emergency responders faced significant challenges reaching the remote peak due to severe weather conditions. Despite efforts to save the hiker's life, he was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. The Utah County Sheriff's Office (UCSO) extended condolences to the victim's family and friends, acknowledging the efforts of both the hikers and rescuers.
A photographer, Taylor Ehat, captured an image of a lightning strike near the peak around the time of the incident, reporting that he had been showing off the photo before learning of the fatality. Ehat mentioned his daughter had considered hiking the mountain that day but opted against it due to the weather.
The UCSO issued a warning to hikers, urging them to check forecasts and take precautions. They emphasized that thunder indicates proximity to a storm and advised hikers to move away from exposed areas and seek substantial shelter. The office clarified that small structures like sheds and shelters do not offer adequate protection from lightning, with fully enclosed buildings or hard-topped vehicles being the safest options.
Mount Timpanogos, also known as Timp, is a popular hiking destination in Utah's Wasatch Range. This incident marks the second fatal lightning strike in the area this year; a 59-year-old man was killed by lightning at the American Forks Twin Peaks in July.