After a particle accelerator causes a storm, Barry Allen is struck by lightning and falls into a coma. Months later he awakens with the power of super speed, granting him the ability to move through Central City unseen. Though he is excited by his new powers, Barry is shocked to discover he is not the only "meta-human" who was created in the accelerator explosion and not everyone is using their new powers for good. Barry partners with S.T.A.R. Labs and dedicates his life to protect the people. For now, only a few close friends and associates know that Barry is literally the fastest man alive, but it won't be long before the world learns what Barry Allen has become...The Flash. But soon later he finds out (according to CW) he got struck with the lightning bolt by his arcnemesis The Reverse Flash. The Reverse Flash killed Barry's mother when he was little.