Several golf fans have been rushed to hospital after being struck by lightning during an event.

According to local reports, five fans were struck right after play at the Tour Championship, in Atlanta, Georgia.

The lightning bolt struck the top of a pine tree near where spectators were stood, which shattered bark all the way to the bottom.

The tree was located just off the 16th tee at East Lake.

Ambulances rushed the injured to receive urgent medical attention and the event was suspended.

A tournament official says the people who left in ambulances appeared alert but he did not know what condition they were in.

The five ambulances streamed into East Lake across the entrance of the driving range to the 16th hole.

The third round had been suspended for about 30 minutes at the time of the lightning strike.

Fans were asked to seek shelter.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.

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