Georgia ranks among the top states in the country for lightning deaths over the past decade, according to data compiled from the National Weather Service.
The data shows eight people were killed by lightning in Georgia from 2016 through 2025, ranking the state sixth in the nation for lightning deaths during that period
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Florida recorded the most deaths with 51, followed by Texas with 21. Alabama and North Carolina each recorded 11 deaths, while Colorado had nine.
Georgia was next with eight.
Overall, 196 lightning deaths were recorded across the United States during the 10-year period.
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Lightning deaths from 2016-2025
Florida: 51
Texas: 21
Alabama: 11
North Carolina: 11
Colorado: 9
Georgia: 8
New York: 7
Pennsylvania: 7
Missouri: 6
Louisiana: 6
Ohio: 6
The numbers serve as a reminder that thunderstorms can become dangerous even when severe weather is not occurring.
The National Weather Service says there is no safe place outdoors when thunderstorms are in the area. People who hear thunder are close enough to a storm to potentially be struck by lightning and should move inside a substantial building or enclosed vehicle.
Channel 2 Action News meteorologists are always tracking storms and changing weather conditions throughout the year. Watch live on Channel 2 and get updates on WSBTV.com and the free WSB-TV News and Weather apps.
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