Lightning strike kills 14-yar-old student at school

KAMPALA, Uganda — A 14-year-old student has died after being struck by lightning at Nakaswa Secondary School in Mukono District, police said.
Uthuman Ocaya Nasuru was walking with fellow students from morning prayers towards their dormitory at about 6:30am on 17 September when lightning struck as rain began to fall, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police.
“Further information will be provided as investigations progress,” said Assistant Superintendent of Police Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy public relations officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police.
Nasuru died at the scene, while the other students survived. His body was taken to the City Mortuary for a postmortem examination.
Police in Nagalama have opened an investigation and visited the school to examine the scene. Investigators are also seeking to review available CCTV footage.
The school has been advised to consider installing additional lightning arresters to strengthen protection for students and staff.
The incident comes as Uganda experiences thunderstorms during the rainy season, prompting renewed warnings about the risks posed by lightning.
Kampala Metropolitan Police urged schools, parents and the wider public to take precautions during thunderstorms, including seeking shelter in strong, enclosed buildings and avoiding open spaces, hilltops and sports fields.
People were also advised to avoid standing under trees, swimming or remaining near water, and touching electrical appliances, wiring, metal structures or plumbing during thunderstorms.
Those caught outdoors without immediate access to shelter should move away from isolated trees, poles and other tall objects and avoid lying flat on the ground, police said.
The public is advised to remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.