FAYETTEVILLE — Alabama was already ahead 7-0 and driving for its second touchdown before ESPN’s cameras were fully functional Saturday.
A lightning strike near Fayetteville forced ESPN camera operators from their platforms just before the 11 a.m. kickoff. According to ESPN, the lightning strike was within eight miles of the stadium.
“For the safety of our employees, when a lightning strike is detected within 8 miles of our events, camera operators in exposed areas are required to take safe shelter,” wrote Derek Volner, a manager with ESPN Communications. “Once 30 (minutes) has passed without a lightning strike within 8 miles, they may return to their positions.