Rancher and 34 cows killed by lightning in Jackson County

Thunderstorm with lightning strikes and dark storm clouds.

DENVER (KDVR) — A Colorado rancher and 34 head of cattle were struck and killed by lightning in Jackson County over Memorial Day weekend.

Jackson County dispatchers received the call at 2:08 p.m. Saturday and responded to the call to a ranch in Rand, Colorado.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office said the rancher, identified as 51-year-old Mike Morgan, was feeding his cattle when the lightning struck.

Bystanders and first responders attempted life-saving measures, but Morgan died at the scene of the accident.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends during this difficult time,” the JCSO said in a press release.

Colorado has the most deaths and injuries from lightning strikes

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Colorado has had one of the highest rates of deaths and injuries from lightning strikes of any U.S. state in recent years.

The National Weather Service has kept records of lightning-related deaths and injuries in Colorado from 1980 to 2021 – and not a single incident was reported in Jackson County during that time.

According to available data, El Paso and Larimer counties have had the most lightning-related injuries and deaths in the state during these 41 years.

The NWS said the best way to protect yourself during a thunderstorm is to stay indoors. However, there have been incidents where people have been struck indoors. The CDC advises avoiding water, windows, porches, concrete and electrical equipment while protecting yourself from lightning.