A teenager survived a terrifying lightning strike in New York’s Central Park after taking shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm, highlighting critical safety lessons that could save lives.
At a Glance
- 15-year-old Yassin Khalifa survived a lightning strike in Central Park, suffering second-degree burns but no nerve damage
- The teen had leaned against a tree during a thunderstorm when lightning struck, traveling through his metal necklace
- The incident occurred near 101st Street and 5th Avenue around 3:40 p.m. during severe weather across the region
- Between 2006 and 2021, 444 Americans were struck by lightning, with a survival rate over 90%
Teen’s Brush with Death Serves as Warning
Fifteen-year-old Yassin Khalifa was enjoying a picnic with friends in Central Park when thunderstorms moved across the area on Thursday afternoon. Seeking shelter from the rain, Khalifa made a nearly fatal mistake by leaning against a tree near 101st Street and 5th Avenue. Around 3:40 p.m., lightning struck the tree and traveled through the teen’s metal necklace, leaving him with second-degree burns on his neck and leg. The powerful electric shock knocked him unconscious, and he later awakened to find himself in an ambulance en route to Weill-Cornell Medical Center.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the chance of being struck by lightning is less than one in a million. The New York Police Department confirmed the incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. while the Northeast was under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch. Despite the frightening ordeal, medical professionals determined Khalifa’s injuries were not life-threatening, making him one of the fortunate majority of lightning strike victims who survived. Statistics show that between 2006 and 2021, 444 Americans were struck by lightning, with a survival rate exceeding 90%.
Survivor Counts His Blessings
Despite the trauma, Khalifa expressed gratitude for his remarkable escape from more serious injury. The teen could have faced permanent disability or death, as lightning strikes can cause severe neurological damage, cardiac arrest, and other life-threatening conditions. Instead, he suffered painful but treatable burns and no lasting nerve damage, a fact that has not escaped his notice as he recovers from the frightening experience.
“The 15-year-old boy who was struck by lightning in Central Park said he’s feeling “pretty lucky” that the electric shock only left him with burns.” – Yassin Khalifa –
The teen further reflected on his close call, noting the particular danger of his position against the tree. “Apparently, I’m pretty lucky, because my spine was directly against the tree and no nerve damage happened. So I’m like, not losing any sort of motor function. So I’m pretty happy about that,” Khalifa told reporters. His metal necklace conducted the electricity, creating a path for the lightning that fortunately did not cause permanent damage to his nervous system.
Critical Safety Lessons for Americans
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of proper thunderstorm safety practices that all Americans should follow. Contrary to common belief, taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms is extremely dangerous, as they are tall objects that attract lightning. The National Weather Service emphasizes that if thunder is audible, lightning is close enough to pose a threat, regardless of whether rain has started falling or how distant the storm appears to be.
“The National Weather Service reminds everyone that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.” – National Weather Service –
New York City Emergency Management advises residents and visitors to seek indoor shelter during thunderstorms and avoid open areas like parks and fields. Metal objects, including jewelry and electronics, should be avoided as they can conduct electricity. Safe shelters include substantial buildings or hard-topped vehicles with windows closed. With more unsettled weather expected in the region before clearer conditions arrive, authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during severe weather events.
