A man in Staten Island, New York, survived a lightning strike near his home while walking to his car during a storm last Thursday. The incident involving Thomas Fahmy was captured by a doorbell camera, showing him collapse after the lightning struck his foot just 15 to 25 feet from his vehicle. The footage later drew widespread attention on social media.

Fahmy was walking along Todt Hill Road near Windsor Road when the lightning strike occurred. He described experiencing an intense shock that spread through his body, followed by tingling, numbness, pain and a burning sensation, particularly in his feet. Despite the severity of the incident, he remained conscious throughout and managed to get back on his feet.

After the strike, Fahmy walked toward a nearby home seeking assistance. Neighbour Stephanie Homan heard his calls for help and went outside to assist him. He was subsequently taken to Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, where doctors monitored him overnight. He was released the following day after medical examinations found no burns or major injuries.

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The experience prompted Fahmy to reflect on the value of life and the importance of not allowing everyday pressures to become overwhelming. He later attended church to express gratitude for surviving the incident. He also bought a Mega Millions lottery ticket on Saturday, adding a light-hearted moment to an otherwise frightening experience.

Fahmy works at the Staten Island office of US Representative Nicole Malliotakis. Malliotakis expressed relief over his survival and acknowledged the neighbour who came to his assistance as well as the medical staff who treated him. The incident also comes amid other reports of lightning strikes across the United States, including fatal and serious cases in Florida and Illinois.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 37 million lightning strikes reach the ground in the United States each year. While the individual likelihood of being struck remains less than one in a million, nearly 90 per cent of people struck by lightning survive. Fahmy’s case highlights the unpredictable danger posed by thunderstorms and the importance of seeking shelter when lightning is present.

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