Man Struck By Lightning During Tuesday Storm In McHenry County

MARENGO, IL — A man has been hospitalized after being struck by lightning in Marengo Tuesday morning.

The Marengo Fire & Rescue District was called to location in the 2600 block of Hawthorn Road in Marengo at about 7:10 a.m. for a report of a male employee who suffered injuries after an apparent lightning strike, according to a news release from the fire and rescue district.

The male was taken to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford for treatment of minor to moderate injuries, authorities said.

A thunderstorm producing lightning, thunder and rain passed through the area at the time of the incident. It is believed a bolt of lightning struck a nearby tree and traveled through the ground before hitting the male employee.

Officials said lightning can be one of the most underrated weather hazards. Residents are reminding to stay inside during a thunderstorm or seek shelter in a sturdy structure.