As storms crossed through the area Thursday, a Burke County man was struck by lightning.

There were reports of strong wind, hail and lightning in the foothills on Thursday morning.

A driver stopped to help David Chapman after he was struck by lightning on Conley Road, south of Morganton.  Witnesses said he had burns to his right leg and his foot, near where the 63-year-old wears a metal brace. 

Witness Paul Scott said the storm was so bad he took cover at the welding shop where he works.

“It come through here pretty good.  Pretty good squall,” Scott said. “Pea size hail.Thundering and lightning -- it was pretty heavy.”

Chapman was taken to Grace Hospital in Morganton.  The hospital said he was released around lunchtime.  

Scott said Chapman is fortunate not to have been hurt worse.  

“He's lucky. You know, he's real lucky,” he said. “He told me he got struck twice and physically (to) be able to say that -- somebody was standing there with him obviously.”