Atlanta: 6 spectators were injured when inclement weather hit the PGA Tour Championship in Atlanta on Saturday. Third round's play at the season finale was suspended as lightning struck trees at the event.
A statement from the PGA Tour stated four fans were injured after lighting hit trees twice near the 16th tee at the East Lake Golf Club.
Medical support at the venue treated four spectators while the two other injured fans received treatment before being hospitalised on Saturday.
Brad Uhl, a spectator who was at the course, told the media, “There was just a big explosion and then an aftershock so strong you could feel the wind from it." He also added, “It was just a flash out of the corner of the eye. It was raining and everyone was huddled near the tree.”
The PGA Tour statement said, "Our latest report is that their injuries do not appear to be life-threatening. The safety of our fans, players and partners is of the utmost importance."
However, This is not the first time golf spectators have been injured by severe August weather. In 1991, a fan was killed in a lightning strike at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel,while watching the 73rd PGA Championship.
The third round play will resume on Sunday.
