At the Palabek Refugee Settlement in northern Uganda, a tragic lightning strike claimed the lives of 13 children and one adult. As migrants sought sanctuary from a strong storm in a makeshift church on Saturday night, the tragedy took place. Lightning struck the building, killing those inside and injuring 34 others, many of whom are currently undergoing treatment.
More than 80,000 people, mostly South Sudanese, have taken up residence in this refugee camp after fleeing the violence and unrest in their homeland. Regretfully, similar tragedies have occurred in the past due to Uganda’s regular lightning strikes, particularly during the rainy season. Ten children were murdered by lightning in another community in northern Uganda a few years ago.
More safeguards against lightning are being called for by officials, especially in high-risk places like Palabek. Emergency personnel are working diligently to support the injured and console bereaved families as the tragedy has left the locals distraught.
There has been increasing worry about Uganda’s vulnerability to lightning strikes, and this tragedy is a sobering reminder of the risks that severe weather can present, particularly to populations who are already at risk.
There have been requests for better lightning protection in rural and camp settings as a result of this horrific death toll. The community is currently in mourning and is hoping that increased awareness and safety precautions will stop disasters in the future.
