Key facts
- A lightning strike occurred at the Sha Tin Jockey Club Swimming Pool on Saturday.
- Swimmers were present in the pool at the time of the incident.
- The lightning strike damaged the diving platform.
- Experts are advocating for mandatory closures of public pools during thunderstorms.
- Current guidelines rely on lifeguards advising swimmers to exit the pool.
A lightning strike at the Sha Tin Jockey Club Swimming Pool in Hong Kong during a thunderstorm has ignited debate over safety protocols for public venues. The incident, which occurred while swimmers were in the water, damaged a diving platform and prompted calls for stricter measures.
Experts have highlighted the risks associated with water's conductivity during thunderstorms, noting that existing lightning protection systems are not infallible. They are urging for mandatory closures of outdoor public spaces like swimming pools when severe weather warnings are in effect.
According to Nick Wu Kai-wing, vice-chairman of the Hong Kong and Kowloon Life Guards’ Union, current guidelines do not mandate pool closures during thunderstorms. Instead, lifeguards are instructed to advise swimmers to leave the pool if conditions deteriorate rapidly, with announcements made. However, Wu noted challenges in effectively clearing pools quickly, including communication issues and swimmer response times.