Two South Dakota Highway Patrol troopers came within yards of a lightning strike while conducting a search in open prairie south of Rapid City, footage released by the patrol shows. The storm hit unexpectedly and the troopers, uninjured, retreated after the bolt hit the flat ground nearby.
Video shows sudden strike during manhunt
The posted video captures the moment the troopers — who were looking for a person described as wearing a purple shirt — are standing on the prairie when a bright flash and a loud crack occur. The patrol wrote on social media that the troopers were within roughly 50 feet of where the lightning struck.
"That's one way to light up a manhunt," the patrol said in its social media post.
Neither trooper required medical attention, and the patrol did not immediately respond to requests for further details. Comments on the post ranged from praise for the patrol's video editing to lighthearted suggestions about replacing uniforms.
Lightning risks peak in August
Meteorologists note that August is typically the busiest month for lightning in the Rocky Mountain region, which includes parts of South Dakota. Afternoon thunderstorms tend to develop in the warmer months and, while often brief, can produce powerful electrical discharges.
"Our thunderstorm season is our thunderstorm season in Wyoming, Montana, and the Dakotas, and August is the peak of it," a regional meteorologist told Cowboy State Daily. He cautioned that while taller objects or higher ground often attract strikes, lightning is unpredictable and can hit flat areas, sparking wildfires and posing risks to people caught outdoors.
What the data show
National data indicate that lightning is a frequent occurrence across the United States each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 37 million lightning strikes hit the ground annually nationwide. While the odds of any one person being struck remain low, the potential consequences are severe enough that weather experts urge caution during storm conditions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported proximity of strike | About 50 feet |
| Typical lightning temperature | 54,000 degrees (F) |
| Estimated U.S. ground strikes per year | 37 million |
Safety guidance for residents and outdoor workers
Authorities and meteorologists recommend several precautions when thunderclouds are in the area. Key steps include:
- Seek shelter immediately in a substantial building or a fully enclosed vehicle with the windows up.
- Avoid open fields, hilltops and tall solitary objects like lone trees.
- Stay away from water and metal objects that can conduct electricity.
- Do not resume outdoor activities until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
For law enforcement and other first responders, storm conditions can complicate operations such as searches and manhunts. The patrol's video highlights how quickly weather can change in the Plains and Rocky Mountain border region, forcing responders to adjust tactics and prioritize safety.
Local reaction and next steps
Observers on social media reacted with a mix of concern and humor. One commenter complimented the patrol's video editing; another jokingly suggested budgeting for new uniforms. The Highway Patrol has not released additional details about the search or the person they were seeking.
As storm season continues, residents across western South Dakota are being reminded to monitor forecasts and heed warnings from the National Weather Service and local authorities. Rapid City-area residents can sign up for local alert systems and follow the Highway Patrol’s official channels for updates about public-safety incidents and weather-related advisories.
This account is based on video and statements released by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and on regional meteorological commentary. No injuries were reported to the patrol in connection with the lightning strike captured on the footage.
