State road 275, between Nociglia and Surano, in Lower Salento, now bears the mark of a double tragedy. Marco Zampilli, 42, from Rome, died in circumstances as rare as they were terrifying: struck by lightning while riding his motorcycle during a violent storm.
As he was driving his BMWZampilli was caught in a sudden downpour. But it wasn't the pouring rain or the slippery road that got the better of him. According to witnesses and initial findings, a lightning bolt struck him directly, throwing him violently to the groundPassers-by immediately came to his aid, trying to revive him, but the emergency services who arrived on the scene could only confirm his death.
The electrocution was instantaneous: the man died instantly.
The same tragedy involving a motorcyclist took place five years ago, immortalized by a commemorative plaque.
This drama is reminiscent of another tragedy. As recalled InSella, in the same place, five years ago, a motorcyclist also lost his life, struck by lightning in similar circumstancesA commemorative plaque, erected in his memory, still stands near the scene of the accident. It now bears witness to a terrible fate that has hit twice in the same place.
Lightning rarely kills motorcyclists in motion. But this double tragedy raises troubling questions and leaves a shocked community in its wake. For the residents of Salento, this stretch of road is no longer just a thoroughfare; it has become a cruel symbol of a repeating fate. Motorcyclists are more exposed to the dangers of thunderstorms than motorists. This is because motorcycles do not offer protection against lightning, unlike cars. Lightning can strike a motorcyclist, causing electrocution and, in the case of a direct hit, cardiac arrest. If a thunderstorm occurs, try to find a safe place to shelter, such as a building. If there is no safe place to go, squat with your feet together. This is the safest behavior in case of lightning.
