Two Grinning Brothers Unaware That They Were Minutes Away From Being Struck By Lightning While Climbing Moro Rock
September 16, 2022
Two grinning brothers, hair standing on end, were unaware that they were minutes away from being struck by lightning while climbing Moro Rock in California's Sequoia National Park.
Don't worry, they survived.
Credit: Michael McQuilken
Michael McQuilken was 18 when he and his brother, Sean, 12, and sister, Mary, 15, climbed California's Moro Rock in 1975.
He and his siblings were hiking the granite dome. When they reached the top to enjoy the view, someone noticed that their hair was standing on end.
"At the time, we thought this was humorous," McQuilken recalled.
"I took a photo of Mary and Mary took a photo of Sean and me. I raised my right hand into the air and the ring I had on began to buzz so loudly that everyone could hear it," he told NBC News.
Suddenly, the temperature dropped dramatically and it began to hail. They decided to return back down the mountain, but partway down, the bolt struck.
All three siblings were knocked to the ground -- and all three survived.
As for the photo, it has been used for decades in brochures to warn campers about the potential for danger.
McQuilken, who is now in his 60s, says he still spends a lot of time outdoors but takes no chances with lightning.
What do you do in this situation?
According to experts, hair standing on end and tingling skin may be signs that a lightning strike is coming. If that happens, seek shelter immediately (NOT under a tree).
If shelter is not possible, squat low to the ground, making yourself the smallest target possible and minimize contact with the ground.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Zoo Visitor Captures Incredible Moment An Elephant Saves A Gazelle From Drowning
She Meant Every Word Of 'In Sickness And In Health'
My Friend Threw Her Disabled Cat A Birthday Party In The Park
The Grade That Saved A Life: A Professor's Unforgettable Act Of Kindness
Hummingbirds Are Nesting On String Lights - And People Are Sharing The Cutest Photos
Soaked, Scared, And Alone - Baby Raccoon Melts Hearts After Rescue
Zoo Visitor Captures Incredible Moment An Elephant Saves A Gazelle From Drowning
Golden Retriever Pushes Owner Into Water Causing Hilarious Chaos
Man Claims He Can Speak Chicken - And Then Proves It
Emu Has An Absolute Blast Playing Chase With Dogs
Kid's Freestyle Dance To Live Jazz Is Pure Joy — And Viewers Can't Get Enough
