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Teen Footballer Critical After Lightning Strike During Training
A teenage football player is fighting for his life after being struck by lightning during training in Opava, Czech Republic. The incident occurred yesterday afternoon as thunderstorms swept through the region near the Polish border.
Emergency Response and Injuries
Witnesses reported the boy collapsed immediately after the lightning strike, remaining motionless on the field. Emergency teams performed CPR at the scene before airlifting him to Ostrava Hospital. Medical staff confirmed the victim suffered cardiac arrest and severe burns.
Seven other teenage players and one adult coach sustained minor injuries and received hospital treatment. All were members of a local amateur football club conducting outdoor training when the storm developed.
Weather Warnings and Safety Protocols
The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for the entire weekend. This incident highlights the critical importance of lightning safety protocols in sports:
- Immediately suspend activities at first thunder or lightning sighting
- Seek enclosed buildings or metal-topped vehicles for shelter
- Wait 30 minutes after last thunder before resuming activities
- Designate weather watchers during outdoor events
According to the National Athletic Trainers' Association, lightning strikes cause approximately 20 fatalities annually in the United States alone. The "30-30 Rule" (count 30 seconds between flash and bang; wait 30 minutes after last thunder) remains the gold standard for athletic safety.
Ongoing Situation
The critically injured teenager remains in "very serious but stable" condition according to medical authorities. Psychological support has been offered to his teammates and witnesses. Czech emergency services urge all outdoor sports organizations to monitor weather forecasts closely during the current storm pattern.
