Alice Springs police are currently at the scene of a lightning strike that has claimed the life of a 35-year-old male tourist.

Superintendent Pauline Vicary said police were alerted to the incident by a Parks and Wildlife ranger around 5:00pm yesterday.

The family group of five was on the popular Kings Canyon Rim Walk, approximately 300 kilometres southwest of Alice Springs.

“The party was about one kilometre from the carpark when the bolt hit them,” Superintendent Vicary said.

“Initial response teams included members from Parks and Wildlife and clinic staff from Kings Canyon. Police from Ntaria (Hermannsburg) arrived later in the evening.

“Conditions at the time were challenging with heavy rain and waterways experiencing flash flooding.

“The response teams reached the location late last night and their first priority was ensuring other members of the party were assessed and looked after.

“They were not injured by the lightning.

“Understandably, they were extremely distressed with the loss of a family member.”

Police can only confirm the party was from interstate and no further information can be released until extended family has been notified.

“Weather conditions in the area yesterday were as a result of ex Tropical Cyclone Hilda, with multiple storm fronts in the area.

“The responders have done an excellent job reaching the site and assisting survivors. I would also like to thank two other tourists in the area at the time who assisted the family,” Superintendent Vicary said.