Jet Skier Killed by Lightning Strike Amid Southeast Storms
A tragic incident occurred near Fort De Soto, Florida, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, when a male jet skier was struck by lightning during ongoing severe weather in the Southeast (Fox Weather). The lightning strike happened at approximately 6:35 p.m., according to James Miller, public information officer for the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. The victim was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The National Weather Service (NWS) has noted that lightning strikes are more frequent during summer months, posing a significant risk to outdoor activities. The Southeast has been experiencing a prolonged period of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds, with 1 to 3 inches of rain expected to accumulate by Monday (Fox Weather). 
