Seven people were rescued after their personal boat was struck by lightning off of Florida' Gulf Coast over the weekend.
The United States Coast Guard said the 39-foot vessel was struck Saturday about 100 miles west of Clearwater. A helicopter from Air Station Clearwater was deployed and rescued the five women and two men.
Footage released by the Coast Guard showed the boat passengers at the moment the lightning hit.
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"Lightning storms are routinely encountered in the Florida maritime environment and can pose a significant hazard to boaters," said Lt. David McKinley, Coast Guard pilot. "Fortunately, the boaters in this case were well prepared with all necessary safety equipment including an EPIRB, flares, and a marine VHF radio to ensure a quick and efficient rescue."
All seven people were uninjured and later reunited with family members.
The boat's owner is working with commercial salvage crews to recovered the disabled vessel.
