A tragic incident occurred on a Marion County farm when a lightning strike resulted in the death of four cows and a calf. The event took place amidst severe thunderstorms over the weekend, as reported by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Jacksonville and confirmed by the farm owner.
Details of the Incident
The cattle were part of Lettelier Brangus, a private cattle breeding operation located in northern Marion County. Following the storms late Saturday night, the animals were discovered under a tree, a common shelter during storms.
Loss of Valuable Livestock
The farm owner reported the loss of several prized donor cows, which included:
- LB Ms. Stormi
- LB Ms. Black Pearl
- LB Ms. Jolene
In a heartfelt social media post, the farm expressed their devastation over the loss. They highlighted the significance of these cattle in their breeding program while recognizing that their genetics will continue to influence future livestock.
Lightning Safety Reminder
The National Weather Service extended their condolences to the farm and emphasized the dangers associated with lightning. They reminded the public that no location outdoors is safe during a thunderstorm, including areas under trees.
The NWS also noted that if thunder is audible, individuals are within striking range of lightning. This serves as a crucial reminder for farm owners and the community about the need for safety during severe weather conditions.
This incident underscores the importance of awareness and preventive measures during thunderstorms, especially for those working with livestock.
