Hikers had summited the mountain early Friday morning when a large thunderstorm moved into the area, and they took shelter in a small shelter known as the “Tin Shack,” according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. 

The lightning struck the shelter, and the male victim sustained critical injuries, authorities said.

Around 6 a.m., the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team responded to the summit. Medical aid was given to the male victim, but he was pronounced dead, the sheriff’s office said.

Search and rescue worked with other agencies to provide medical assistance and evacuate injured individuals. USCO said the rescue operation presented “significant challenges” due to the location and weather.

“The Utah County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young man who lost his life. We also recognize the efforts of the hikers and rescuers who assisted those who were injured during this incident.”

The incident was the second fatal lightning strike in the Wasatch Mountains this year. A 59-year-old man died after he was struck near the summit of American Forks Twin Peaks in July.

The sheriff’s office urged caution because the weather conditions can rapidly change in the mountains, and that lightning can strike away from main areas of rainfall.

Citing the National Weather Service, the sheriff’s office advised hikers to check the weather forecast before setting off and closely monitor changing conditions while on the mountain.

“If you hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning,” UCSO said. “Hikers should immediately move away from exposed ridgelines, peaks and other elevated areas and seek substantial shelter when possible.

“Small structures such as sheds, shelters and similar buildings do not provide adequate protection from lightning. The safest locations are substantial, fully enclosed buildings or an enclosed, hard-topped vehicle.”