Lightning Strikes Ruin All Fireworks for July 4th Festivities in Sanford

SANFORD, Fla. – On Friday, lightning caused destruction to the fireworks equipment that was set up for Sanford’s Fourth of July festivities, as reported by the local police.

A police department representative shared on social media that the city experienced a storm that afternoon, resulting in a lightning strike at the marina area, where the fireworks were kept.

“The lightning hit, triggering a series of events where the fireworks ignited and all exploded,” explained the spokesperson. “Additionally, a significant portion of the equipment and the control panel used to coordinate the evening’s event was damaged.”

Police noted that no one was injured in the incident, though there will not be a fireworks display on Friday evening as a result of what happened.

Despite that, the “Star Spangled Sanford” event is still planned to go on as scheduled from 6 – 9 p.m.

According to city officials, the event will feature live music, food vendors and other festive activities around Fort Mellon Park.

“The safety of our residents and visitors remains our top priority,” a release from the city reads. “We ask that attendees do not bring any personal fireworks to the event. Unauthorized fireworks pose serious safety risks to both the public and emergency personnel.”