Lightning poses a severe risk to outdoor activities, especially during peak lightning season from June to August, when 70% of fatalities occur. So far in 2026, 12 fatalities have been reported, including recent incidents in Cape Charles, Virginia, and Florida. Tall objects, such as trees and buildings, are more likely to be struck, but lightning can also strike up to 25 miles away from a storm. The risk is particularly high in states like Florida and North Carolina, where frequent thunderstorms occur.