A golfer near Cincinnati survived a terrifying encounter after lightning struck him while he was recording a storm. His phone captured the flash and the deafening bang before it fell to the ground.
The incident happened Friday, Aug. 7, while heavy rain covered the golf course. Several people were attempting to move a golf cart across the soaked grass when the strike occurred.
Meteorologist Matt Devitt shared the video and said the man was struck on the arm. He is now recovering and reportedly described himself as “unbelievably lucky.”
The frightening footage demonstrates how quickly a thunderstorm can become dangerous. Golf courses are especially exposed because they contain large open areas, isolated trees and few substantial shelters.
The lightning strike happened while he filmed a stuck golf cart
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One of the craziest videos I’ve ever seen. Man was struck by lightning while filming a storm on a golf course Friday in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was struck on the arm, but is recovering and tells me he is “unbelievably lucky.” Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors! Credit: Chris S… pic.twitter.com/RrwuavQ5oa
— Matt Devitt (@MattDevittWX) August 9, 2026
The original X post from Devitt shows the man filming his friends as they struggle to move a golf cart up a wet incline when a bright flash suddenly fills the screen. The camera immediately drops as the sound of the lightning strike overwhelms the recording.
Devitt added a reminder with the post that said, “Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”
Trees and golf carts are not safe storm shelters
The National Weather Service says no place outside is safe when a thunderstorm is nearby. Anyone who can hear thunder is close enough to be struck by lightning.
People should enter a substantial enclosed building or a hard-topped vehicle with the windows closed. An open golf cart, pavilion or rain shelter does not provide the same protection.
The agency also warns people not to stand beneath tall or isolated trees. Although a tree may offer protection from rain, it can increase someone’s exposure to lightning.
Golfers should wait before returning outside
The National Weather Service’s guidance for outdoor sports recommends waiting at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before resuming an activity.
If someone is struck, witnesses should call 911 immediately. Lightning victims do not retain an electrical charge, so it is safe to touch them and begin first aid or CPR if necessary.
The golfer in Cincinnati survived his remarkably close call and his video gives a very powerful reminder that the safest response to thunder is to leave the course and get indoors immediately.