USA

Struck by Lightning, New York Man Survives Miraculous Hit

06 September 2026 21:09 PM

NEWS DESK

A New York man was struck by lightning while walking to a dental appointment on Staten Island, collapsing to the ground in an instant but remarkably surviving the incident.

Thomas Fahmi was walking along a street with an umbrella on the afternoon of August 27 when a sudden flash of intense white light appeared before him. Moments later, lightning struck him, leaving him temporarily numb and in severe pain.

Fahmi described the experience as one of the most terrifying moments of his life. He said he felt tingling and numbness throughout his body, along with intense pain and a burning sensation, particularly in both legs.

The dramatic incident was captured by a security camera at a nearby home. The footage shows Fahmi walking with his umbrella before a bright flash suddenly appears and he collapses.

Remarkably, Fahmi was able to get back on his feet shortly afterward. He then made his way toward a nearby house seeking help. A neighbour heard his cries and called emergency services.

Fahmi was taken to hospital, where doctors examined and monitored him. Despite being struck by lightning, he had no visible burns or major injuries. He was discharged the following day after spending one night under observation.

The incident has prompted Fahmi to reflect on his life. He said he views his survival not simply as luck, but as a blessing.

Lightning strikes thousands of people in the United States each year, although an individual’s annual chance of being struck is estimated to be less than one in a million. Around 90% of people struck by lightning survive, though lightning-related deaths continue to occur in different parts of the country.

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