Wrightsville Beach lifeguards follow strict policy to warn beach patrons and seek shelter during lightning storms

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Thunderstorms can pop up at any time during the summer months and that often sends beachgoers scrambling to seek shelter inside.

In recent weeks, there have been lots of storms in the Cape Fear and lifeguards at Wrightsville Beach will often leave their lifeguard stands if a lightning storm is imminent.

According to the National Ocean Service which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 33 people have been killed annually by lightning in the U.S. since 2006.

The safest place during lighting activity is inside a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle. The National Ocean Service says rain shelters, small sheds, and open vehicles are not safe.

Lightning is listed as one of the ten dangers at the beach.

Sam Proffitt is the Director of Ocean Rescue & EMS for the town of Wrightsville Beach.

He says they operate under a policy adopted by the United States Lifesaving Association which reads as follows:

“The head lifeguard (acting supervisor) will constantly monitor the weather for adverse conditions, such as lightning, heavy rain, strong wind, hail, or other potentially dangerous conditions. Once lightning is observed at or within 10 miles, the head guard will contact the National Weather Service on OR Ops to confirm the distance of the lightning. Once the distance is confirmed to be 10 miles or less, the head lifeguard will instruct all lifeguards to notify beach patrons of the danger and seek immediate shelter. Stand guards are to seek shelter in a vehicle or building, while remaining on the island. All stand guards will remain out of the lifeguard stands for at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike within a 10-mile radius. Stand guards are expected to return to their assigned stand within 10 minutes of the head guard issuing the all clear.”