In a tragic event in 2017, Jared and Misty Blackwelder from Springfield, Missouri, experienced the sudden loss of their entire herd of 32 dairy cows. After feeding them one morning, they left the cows to graze, unaware that a storm was approaching.
Despite the darkening skies, the couple thought it was safe to leave the cows outside. When they returned later that day, they found all their cows dead, struck down by lightning and lying in a pile.
The Wright County Missouri Farm Bureau posted images of the scene and asked for community support. Missouri Farm Bureau President Stan Cody noted that while lightning strikes on cattle are not uncommon, losing so many at once is extremely rare.
A veterinarian who examined the herd confirmed lightning as the cause. He mentioned that he had never seen more than six cows killed by lightning in a single incident before. It’s believed the cows had grouped together during the storm, increasing their risk.
Jared expressed his sorrow, emphasizing the bond he had with the cows he raised and milked daily. The financial loss was significant, with each cow worth up to $2,500, totaling more than $60,000.
