Many Tatra mountain climbers have been struck by lightning.

A spokesperson for the rescue services confirmed that five people died, including four Polish citizens, two of whom were children, and one Slovak national, when lightning struck a large metal chain and cross atop Giewont in the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland.

The unexpected incident occurred in the early afternoon of August 22nd while many tourists were planning to conquer the summit of Giewont. Additionally, the lightning strike injured over 100 people, many of whom were in serious condition with multiple burns.

Rescue and medical forces, including numerous helicopters and ambulances, were mobilized to transport the injured to hospitals in three towns in the Malopolska region of southern Poland for treatment. That afternoon, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki personally visited the scene to assess the situation and direct relief efforts.

Police and rescue workers continue to check the roads in the area to see if anyone else is injured or needs assistance.

According to health officials, the death toll could still rise.

Located at an altitude of 1,894 meters, Giewont is the most famous tourist destination in the Tatra Mountains region. At the summit, the 15-meter-high cross is always a focal point for tourists eager to conquer it, but it is also a place that suffers from frequent lightning strikes during thunderstorms.

Huong Thao