A fatal lightning strike in Itawamba County this week highlights the danger of severe weather.

Authorities say a man and the horse he was riding were struck by lightning and killed. Itawamba County Coroner Sheila Summerford told the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal that 37-year-old Tim Edge of Mantachie was riding horses with his father Wednesday when lightning struck him and his horse.

Summerford said Edge’s father had gone into a barn while Edge stayed outside. While in the barn, he heard a loud boom and that’s when the lightning hit. Both Edge and his horse were killed.

Too often, people ignore the warning signs of an approaching storm — thunder. Lighting kills an average of 49 people each year, and hundreds more are injured.

The old rule most of us were taught still applies – if you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. But how many of us ignore that rule, telling ourselves the storm is several miles away? Usually, we’re correct and there’s no harm. But for the 49 people killed, on average, each year that’s not the case.

Those who find themselves in charge of children outdoors – coaches, scout leaders, etc. – should take lightning safety seriously. No ball game or campout is worth putting lives in danger. If it thunders, cancel the practice, game or event, and move everyone indoors.

“When thunder roars, go indoors” isn’t just a catchy slogan, it’s a safety tip that can save lives.