A Marion photographer and her 6-year-old son are recovering after a terrifying brush with lightning on Roan Mountain. Brianna Pendley was in the area capturing bridal portraits when a fast-moving storm rolled in. Caught off guard, Pendley, her son, and the bride took shelter under a nearby tree—a decision that nearly turned deadly.
Pendley said lightning struck the tree and ground near them. “I saw smoke coming from the ground and felt electricity in my feet and legs,” she recalled. Her young son was briefly unresponsive, lying on his side. All three were taken to a hospital in Spruce Pine and are expected to be okay.
Experts warn that lightning can strike up to 25 miles from a storm—sometimes even when skies appear clear. These rare but dangerous events are known as “bolts from the blue.”
The National Weather Service urges: “When thunder roars, go indoors” and “When you see a flash, dash.” Safe shelter includes enclosed buildings or hard-topped vehicles. Standing under trees, umbrellas, or open shelters during a storm is dangerous, as these objects often attract lightning.
If you’re caught in the open and hear thunder, move quickly to the lowest elevation and avoid tall, isolated structures.
Photo courtesy Brianna PendleyFacebook
