By Mitchell Willetts
The Charlotte Observer
SALINA, Okla. — Lightning struck at a popular swimming hole in Oklahoma, injuring four girls in the water, officials said.
The girls were swimming at Blue Hole Park, in eastern Oklahoma, at about 10:45 a.m. on August 5 when the lightning struck, the Grand River Dam Authority said in a news release.
Two of the girls were taken by ambulance to a hospital in Tulsa, while the other two were taken in personal vehicles to a hospital in Pryor, the GRDA said.
Officials did not provide any updates on the conditions of the girls on Sunday afternoon.
Weather conditions in Mayes County, where Blue Hole Park is located, were mostly cloudy and rainy for much of the morning, National Weather Service data show.
Local and county authorities responded to the scene, along with GRDA police, the release said.
“An investigation into the incident is ongoing,” the GRDA said.
Blue Hole Park is roughly 60 miles east of downtown Tulsa.
“This popular swimming hole ... is a terrific destination for summer,” according to the state’s tourism website. “With shallow water perfect for young swimmers, plenty of wildlife surrounding the area, and RV and tent camp sites available, Blue Hole Park offers outdoor fun for all ages.”
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