Man, 24, dies following lightning strike near Pasir Ris Beach

A 24-year-old man has died after a lightning strike near Pasir Ris Beach, Singapore, authorities confirmed early Monday. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, resulting in eight individuals being hospitalized.

Police received a distress call around 4:50 p.m. on Sunday, reporting the incident at 131 Pasir Ris Road, adjacent to Pasir Ris Beach. The group comprised eight people, ranging in age from 13 to 54. Two were taken to KK Women's and Children's Hospital, while the remaining six were transported to Sengkang General Hospital.

The 24-year-old victim was found unconscious and later pronounced dead, according to police. Initial investigations do not indicate any foul play, and the case remains under investigation.

Reports from The Straits Times suggest the group was engaged in kayaking and paddleboarding when the lightning struck the water. An eyewitness described seeing the group in the sea as lightning hit the water, and subsequently observed an unconscious man on a paddleboard while others attempted to return to shore. The eyewitness noted that the sky had been clear at the time.

Meteorological services had predicted localized short thundery showers for parts of Singapore during the first two weeks of July, particularly in the late morning and afternoon.