American officials say that the condition of four people is critical due to lightning strikes near the White House.
According to the French news agency AFP, a statement from the Fire and Emergency Department of Washington on Thursday said that two men and two women were seriously injured when lightning struck a park near the White House.
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In videos shared on social media, it can be seen that several ambulances and a fire brigade vehicle were present at the scene.
Thunderstorms hit Washington on Thursday evening.
Washington Fire and Emergency Department spokesman Vito Maggiello said White House Secret Service officers and Park Police contacted emergency services to provide medical assistance.
"He was given immediate medical attention and rushed to the nearest hospital."
He said that it is not clear whether these four persons knew each other or not.
He further said that these four people were standing near a tree when lightning struck.
When there are clouds and lightning, it is best to stay away from trees and stay indoors. And this is the principle.
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