The lightning strike came unexpectedly during what should have been a routine outdoor activity for the youth group from Salina, Utah, adding a sudden element of danger to their hike in Sevier County's eastern area. The incident unfolded amidst the onset of rain around 1:45 p.m. local time, catching the group off guard.

Approximately 50 children in the group felt the reverberations of the lightning strike, which struck perilously close to their location as rainwater pooled around them, potentially amplifying its impact.

In response, emergency personnel acted swiftly to transport the seven affected youth to hospitals in Salina for urgent medical attention. Of these, two with more severe symptoms were airlifted to Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi for specialized care. Further details about their conditions were not immediately disclosed.

The remaining five individuals were also taken to nearby hospitals for assessment and treatment. Fortunately, officials confirmed that none of those hospitalized are facing life-threatening injuries.

Meanwhile, the remainder of the youth group was safely located and returned to Salina, where they were joyfully reunited with their parents. Following the incident, none of these children reported any medical issues.

Sevier County, positioned approximately 167 miles south of Salt Lake City, was the backdrop for this startling event during what was otherwise intended to be a normal outdoor excursion for the youth group. Thanks to the swift and coordinated response from local emergency services, the affected individuals received immediate medical attention, effectively mitigating the potential severity of the incident and ensuring their safety and well-being.