A shocking tragedy struck a Missouri farm when 32 cows were killed in a single lightning strike, leaving the Blackwelder family in utter disbelief. This devastating event highlights the unpredictable and often cruel nature of weather and its impact on farming communities.
The Unthinkable Tragedy
On a typical Saturday morning in June 2017, Jared and Misty Blackwelder, dairy farmers from Springfield, Missouri, carried out their usual routine of feeding their herd of 32 cows. While a storm was building on the horizon, the couple believed the worst of the recent flooding had passed. They decided to let their cows graze freely, unaware of the approaching danger.
Hours later, when they returned to check on the herd, they were met with an unimaginable sight: all 32 cows were found dead, piled together in one spot, the victims of a deadly lightning strike. This rare and tragic event left the Blackwelders speechless and heartbroken.
How the Lightning Strike Caused the Tragedy
A local veterinarian confirmed that lightning had been the cause of death for all 32 cows. The veterinarian speculated that the cows had likely huddled together in an attempt to seek shelter from the incoming storm, making them an easy target for the powerful lightning strike.
He also added that although lightning-related cattle deaths are not unheard of, he had never seen such a large number of cows struck at once. Typically, lightning strikes kill just a few animals, but this incident was extraordinary in both its scale and impact.
Emotional and Financial Fallout
While the emotional toll on the Blackwelder family was overwhelming, the financial consequences were equally severe. Each cow was valued at approximately $2,000, meaning the family faced a loss of over $60,000—an amount that would take years to recover from. Jared Blackwelder expressed the emotional strain of the loss, saying, “They’re not pets, but you raise them every day.
It’s hard to lose them.” Farming is an incredibly personal endeavor, and each animal represents years of care, effort, and investment. The loss of so many cows at once was a heavy blow to both their livelihood and their hearts.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy resonated deeply with the local community, with many rallying around the Blackwelders in their time of need. The Wright County, Missouri, Farm Bureau shared the heartbreaking images of the dead cows, urging residents to pray for the grieving family. This devastating loss served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of farming and the forces of nature that farmers must contend with daily.
The Blackwelder family’s tragic experience underscores the vulnerability of rural farming life and the sudden, catastrophic impact that weather can have on both personal and financial levels. As they begin the difficult journey of recovery, the community continues to stand by them, offering both emotional and practical support in the wake of this rare and devastating event.