Miami, FL – A driver was hospitalized after a lightning strike caused a large tree to collapse onto a moving sport utility vehicle in North Miami as severe thunderstorms moved through South Florida.
The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. Friday near North Miami Avenue and Northeast 125th Street.
According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, lightning struck a tree alongside the roadway, causing it to split before falling directly onto a passing Range Rover.
Emergency crews responded to reports of a person trapped inside the damaged vehicle.
Firefighters worked to remove the tree and safely free the driver before transporting the individual to a nearby trauma center for treatment.
Officials have not released the driver’s identity or provided an update on the person’s condition.
Surveillance video from a nearby residence captured the moment the lightning struck.
The footage shows a bright flash followed by the tree breaking apart and falling across the roadway onto the SUV.
Neighbors told local media they heard a loud boom that sounded similar to an explosion before discovering the damaged vehicle beneath the fallen tree.
The incident happened as thunderstorms produced heavy rain, frequent lightning and hazardous conditions across portions of South Florida.
Weather officials routinely warn that lightning can strike trees, power lines and other objects, creating dangerous conditions for motorists and pedestrians even after storms begin moving through an area.
Authorities have not reported any additional injuries related to the incident.
North Miami officials continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the tree collapse, while emergency management officials are reminding residents to remain alert during severe weather and avoid unnecessary travel when thunderstorms are present.