14 Killed, 34 Injured in Lightning in Uganda

In a tragic incident in northern Uganda, a lightning strike claimed the lives of 14 people and left 34 others injured at a refugee camp.

According to Ugandan police, the strike hit a temporary metal structure where residents of the Palabek Refugee Settlement were attending a religious service.

The camp, located in the remote Lamwo District, primarily houses refugees from South Sudan.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke reported that the identities of the victims have not yet been confirmed. Initial reports indicate that the lightning strike did not cause any fires following the incident.

Fatal lightning strikes are a recurring danger in Uganda, especially during the rainy season when thunderstorms are more frequent.

East Africa often experiences severe weather during this period, placing communities in vulnerable locations, like temporary refugee camps, at higher risk of such natural calamities.

This tragedy underscores the need for improved safety measures for refugee camps in regions prone to severe weather, especially for those living in makeshift structures that may attract lightning during storms.