Panorama
Lightning strikes scout camp on Mount Livata: a 16-year-old boy in critical condition
A young scout is in critical condition after being struck by lightning. Two other boys were lightly injured.
A 16-year-old boy has been seriously injured by lightning while at a scout camp on Mount Livata, in the province of Rieti. The young man was urgently evacuated by helicopter to the Policlinico Gemelli in Rome, where he is currently hospitalized in pediatric intensive care with a reserved prognosis, according to Sky TG24.
The electric shock struck the scout group during a heavy storm. Two other boys present at the camp were lightly injured and were taken to a hospital in Tivoli, as reported by Rai News. Their conditions are not considered serious, but they were still taken to the hospital for examinations.
According to information from ANSA and la Repubblica, the boy's health is considered critical by doctors. The medical management of the Policlinico Gemelli has confirmed that the young man is under observation and his condition will be constantly monitored.
The lightning strike caused panic among the campers, but it is unclear how many were in the camp at the time of the incident. Testimonies from other scouts present describe the situation as alarming, while rescuers responded quickly to provide assistance.
The seriousness of the incident has raised concerns within the scouting communities, and an investigation into the weather conditions at the time may be initiated to clarify the circumstances under which the lightning struck.