A North Queensland man has been transported to hospital after a terrifying lightning strike directly hit his Kelso home during severe thunderstorms that battered the region on Tuesday afternoon.
Emergency Response to Electrical Storm Incident
Emergency services rushed to a residential property on Allambie Lane in Kelso approximately at 4:30 PM following reports that lightning had struck the dwelling. Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics arrived to find one male occupant affected by the electrical surge caused by the direct hit.
The man, whose age and identity haven't been disclosed, was assessed at the scene by medical professionals before being transported to Townsville University Hospital for further treatment. While his specific injuries remain undisclosed, the fact he required hospitalisation indicates significant medical concern following the lightning impact.
Severe Weather Sweeps Across North Queensland
The lightning incident occurred as part of a broader severe weather system affecting much of North Queensland. The Bureau of Meteorology had issued multiple warnings for the region, with severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and frequent lightning activity throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening.
Kelso, located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Townsville's CBD, experienced some of the most intense storm activity during this period. The direct lightning strike on a residential property highlights the dangerous potential of such electrical storms, even when people are sheltering indoors.
Safety Warnings and Regional Impact
Emergency services have reiterated standard safety advice during electrical storms, emphasizing that no place outdoors is safe when thunderstorms are in the area. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services reminded residents that if they can hear thunder, they're already within striking distance of lightning.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the very real dangers posed by North Queensland's notorious storm season. The region experiences some of Australia's most intense electrical storm activity, with lightning strikes causing property damage, injuries, and occasionally fatalities each year.
Weather authorities continue to monitor conditions across North Queensland, with further storm activity predicted throughout the week. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather warnings and have emergency plans in place for severe weather events.
