What happened in the news
The Straits Times reported that 24-year-old Mikhail Benyamin, a freelance kayaking instructor, died after being struck by lightning at Pasir Ris Beach on 5 July 2026. Police said six others were taken conscious to hospital, and no foul play was suspected.
The report also said he was with family and was not conducting a course at the time. For Penguin families, the lesson is not to assign blame. It is to remember that weather risk can change the safety picture very quickly around water.
Why water makes weather decisions more serious
Swimming pools, beaches, kayaks, paddleboards, and open waterfronts all place people in exposed environments. A learner may feel capable in water, but weather can add a separate layer of risk.
That is why water-safety planning should include the sky, not only the pool depth, coach, equipment, or swimming ability.
Singapore has frequent lightning activity
Meteorological Service Singapore explains that Singapore has an average of about 176 lightning days a year. It also notes that lightning can occur away from the immediate thunderstorm area, including strikes sometimes described as coming from clear sky.
NEA weather information also states that a forecast of thundery showers indicates an imminent risk of lightning, and that lightning can strike more than 10km away from a thunderstorm cloud.
What families should check before outdoor water activity
Before swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or any outdoor water session, check the latest official forecast, the short-term nowcast, visible sky conditions, and whether the venue has a clear suspension policy.
If thunder, lightning risk, or fast-changing weather is present, the safer decision is to leave the water, seek proper shelter, and restart only when conditions are genuinely safe. A missed lesson is better than a preventable emergency.
How this applies to swimming lessons
For pool-based swimming lessons, the same thinking applies. Parents should ask how weather calls are made, who has authority to pause a lesson, and whether the coach will prioritise safety over finishing the session.
Penguin's position is that weather judgement is part of premium service. Families should never feel pressured to continue an outdoor water session when lightning risk, heavy rain, or unsafe conditions are present.