A 34-year-old midwife was zapped to death by a massive lightning strike when she answered her smartphone as she sheltered from a thunderstorm during a family picnic.

Gonul Konakci was rushed to hospital in Bilecik, northern Turkey, but died of her injuries in the clinic's intensive care unit, local media reported on 13th May.

Bafflingly experts say mobile phones do not attract lightning and are not dangerous to use outdoors.

Picture shows Gonul Konakci (left) who was struck by lightning in the Oluklu village of Sogut district in Bilecik in Turkey, undated. It happened when she answered a phone during a picnic. Note: Private photo taken from social media. (Newsflash/NX)

But they warn that holding any metal or conductive object during a thunderstorm can increase risk of being struck.

Safety advisors say people trapped outside during a thunderstorm should avoid open spaces and sheltering under isolated trees.

Picture shows Gonul Konakci who was struck by lightning in the Oluklu village of Sogut district in Bilecik in Turkey, with family, undated. It happened when she answered a phone during a picnic. Note: Private photo taken from social media. (Newsflash/NX)

The Bozuyuk State Hospital, where Gonul worked, expressed their condolences in a statement saying: "We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and the healthcare community, and pray for God's mercy upon the deceased."

Gonul's funeral was held on 14th May in her hometown of Han.

(MJ Leidig/newsX)