'Take Lightning Seriously': Okla. Police Cruiser Struck by Bolt During Storm

Security camera footage shows how dangerous and unpredictable severe storms can be when a bolt of lightning struck a parked Oklahoma police cruiser this week.

The Newcastle Emergency Management team posted a clip of the scary incident was posted on the department's Facebook page. Thunderstorms with high winds and hail had hit the state, and a tornado watch was issued for multiple counties.

In the video, an unoccupied Newcastle police cruiser is seen sitting in a parking lot as the rain pours down. A half-second later, there's a flash of light, and a thick cloud of smoke billows from the vehicle.

"Just minutes ago, lightning struck a Newcastle police car during the storms. No one was hurt, but that could’ve been anyone," the social media post stated.

It's unclear how much damage the cruiser sustained from the lightning. The department, however, used the video to remind the public of the potential danger lightning poses during storms.

"If you hear thunder, you’re close enough to get hit (by lightining)," the department stated. "Get inside, stay away from trees and metal, and unplug electronics until the storm passes.

"Take lightning seriously every time."