A total of 14 refugees from South Sudan were struck dead by a deadly lightning. The incident happened inside Palabek Refugee Settlement camp in Lamwo districts, in Northern Uganda.
According to the police report the incident happened during a prayer service at a church in Zone 8, Block 2.
The victims are said to have gathered for prayers when the rain started around 5:00 PM, and the lightning struck at 5:30 PM.
Other 34 victims were evacuated to Paluda health center III, where they have since been receiving treatment.
The dead were aged 13 to 18.
They include: Nyamaet Thiluak , 17 (female-residence: Block 4, Zone 8), Chaar Tot ,18 (male-residence: Block 1, Zone 8), Madol Wigjang 21, (male-residence: Block 3, Zone 8), Nyachot Mawichnyuon, 17 (female-residence: Block 1, Zone 8), Nyakueh Gatgueng, 15 (female- residence: Block 1, Zone 8), Jima Gat Tiok, 14 (male-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Tany Tai, 12 (female-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Tidial Gatluak, 16 (male-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Chop Matai Chop, 15 (male-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Nyagai Diew, 9 (female-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Nyathak Mariner, 12 (female-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Lul Riek John, 14 (male-residence: Block 2, Zone 8), Khamis Tut, 14 (male-residence: Block 1, Zone 8), and Tura Betu, 14 (male-residence: Block 3, Zone 8).
The Uganda Police Force spokesperson, Rusoke Kituuma has urged the public to take the threat of lightning seriously during this rainy season.
He said at the first sign of thunder or lightning, people need to seek shelter in a fully enclosed building until the storm has passed, avoid structures that are not fully enclosed, such as pavilions or tents, which do not provide adequate protection, and if caught outside without shelter, avoid open spaces and stay away from tall objects like trees, utility poles, and fences, as lightning tends to strike the tallest points.
Kituuma noted that if one is on a boat and a storm approaches, they should all return to the shores.
He said people should always stay away from swimming pools, lakes, and beaches during thunderstorms since water is an excellent conductor of electricity.
He also advised people to stay away from metal objects or avoid carrying metal items as they can increase the risk of being struck.
