CLEARWATER, Fla. — Video captured the moment lightning struck a boat off the coast of Florida, prompting a rescue by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard released a video showing people smiling on the boat before lightning struck behind them.
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The lightning hit the boat Saturday as it was 100 miles offshore of Clearwater Beach.
Photos: 7 rescued by Coast Guard after lightning strikes boat of Florida coast
A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew was called in after the boat become stranded in the water.
A total of seven people – five women and two men – were rescued by Coast Guard crews.
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“Lightning storms are routinely encountered in the Florida maritime environment and can pose a significant hazard to boaters,” said Lt. David McKinley, Coast Guard pilot. “Fortunately, the boaters in this case were well prepared with all necessary safety equipment including an EPIRB, flares, and a marine VHF radio to ensure a quick and efficient rescue.”
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Crews are helping the owner salvage his damaged boat.
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