Lightning Kills 106 Cows

[matcom]

<snip>

LIGHTNING storms have robbed several farmers of their livestock in a series of strikes that have rocked regional NSW.

An unusual high pressure system over the Tasman Sea, pushing a strong northeasterly wind and blowing moisture over the state, has been blamed for the strikes.

Farmer Warwick Marks lost half of his annual income when lightning hit 71 registered dairy cows on his property at Dorrigo, west of Coffs Harbour, on the Mid-North Coast on Monday.

It killed 68 instantly and left three others paralysed for several hours. They later made a full recovery.

But it is not the first time Mr Marks has lost cattle to the elements.

Five years ago, 11 dairy cows were killed by lightning - just 500m from the latest strike.

"We've always had small losses but nothing of this magnitude," Mr Marks said. "We've gone through droughts and floods over the years but this is the worst thing we've ever experienced.

"It comes part and parcel of living on the Dorrigo plateau, which has red volcanic soil and high rainfall. The highest point always gets struck first.

"But it doesn't make it any easier."

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,10117,17117877-13762,00.html

[Deja Q]

1. Yum. Broasted crow. Tastes like chicken! The all new BK Broiler.

:9 :9