Florida leads the nation in thunderstorms, and lightning can strike miles from the rain. If you can hear thunder, you're already at risk.
Y'all, there is no round of golf worth getting struck by lightning. Remember what happened in Caddyshack? This was taken yesterday in Venice, Florida. Eventually a course ranger had to bring them back to the clubhouse. Always be safe! Credit: Kathy P McSteen @spann @stormhour pic.twitter.com/xvZimf6NMY
— Matt Devitt (@MattDevittWX) July 25, 2026
A photo from a golf course in Venice, Florida, recently showed golfers playing as lightning flashed nearby. According to the social media post, a course ranger eventually had to escort the group back to the clubhouse.
The big picture
Lightning kills and seriously injures people every year, often because they wait too long to seek shelter.
Many people believe they're safe until rain begins or lightning appears overhead. That's not how thunderstorms work.
Lightning frequently strikes well outside the heaviest rain.
Bottom line: If you hear thunder, go indoors immediately.
Florida is especially vulnerable
Florida experiences more thunderstorms than any other state.
The corridor between Tampa and Orlando records the highest frequency of cloud-to-ground lightning in the continental United States. Summer storms can develop rapidly, turning a sunny afternoon into dangerous conditions within minutes.
Myth: A golf cart is safe
It isn't.
Golf carts, motorcycles, convertibles, tents, picnic shelters, gazebos and trees do not protect you from lightning.
Safe shelter means:
- A substantial building with plumbing or electricity.
- A fully enclosed hard-topped vehicle with the windows closed.
If thunder begins, leave the course immediately. Don't finish the hole or wait to see if the storm changes direction.
Don't rush back outside
The danger doesn't end when the rain stops.
Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before returning outdoors. Every new rumble restarts the clock.
Another example of lightning hitting well away from the parent thunderstorm which is about 8 miles south. One of the strikes right on downtown St. Pete! #flwx pic.twitter.com/DEYYybgTdD
— Mike Clay (@Mike_Clay) July 26, 2026
Know what to do
At the first sound of thunder:
- Stop outdoor activities immediately.
- Go to a substantial building or enclosed vehicle.
- Stay away from water, open fields and isolated trees.
- Never shelter in a golf cart or under a pavilion.
- Remain indoors for 30 minutes after the last thunder.
If someone is struck
A lightning victim is safe to touch.
Call 911 immediately. Begin CPR if needed and use an AED if one is available. Fast medical care saves lives.
Bottom line
The golf course will still be there tomorrow.
The fish will still bite another day.
The beach will still be there after the storm.
Your family cannot replace you.
When thunder roars, go indoors. No round of golf is worth your life.
