South African Correspondent
A devastating lightning strike at the Palabek Refugee Settlement in Uganda has resulted in the deaths of 14 people, 13 children and one adult.
This tragic event occurred during a church service on Saturday evening, as confirmed by local police.
Details of the Incident
The lightning strike injured an additional 34 people, highlighting the severe weather conditions that have recently affected the region, which has been experiencing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Kituuma Rusoke, a spokesperson for Uganda Police, reported that the adult victim was 21 years old, but the ages of the deceased children have not been disclosed.
Context and Community Impact
The Palabek Refugee Settlement is home to over 80,000 refugees and asylum seekers, many fleeing from South Sudan. This incident is reminiscent of a similar tragedy that occurred four years ago in Arua, Uganda, where a lightning strike claimed the lives of 10 children who were playing football. The community is now mourning the loss of these young lives, underscoring the dangers posed by severe weather in the region.
Zim GBC News©2024