Lightning Kills Ugandan Schoolchildren

Three pupils have been killed after being struck by lightning in Uganda’s north-western district of Yumbe.

Ugandan Red Cross Society spokeswoman Irene Nakasiita confirmed that the pupils aged between 9 and 10 died on the spot at Mungoyo Primary School when the lightning struck on Wednesday.

The total number of children affected is 75 and 53 have since been treated and discharged from hospital, she said.

Update on the lightening struck pupils in Yumbe district yesterday:
– No of children affected – 75.
-53 children have been discharged.
– 3 deaths registered
1.Munduru Consulate 10yrs
2.Asimba Norman 9yrs
3.Ezasurubo Lauren 9yrs

We r still on ground for emergency support. pic.twitter.com/4cOEUz4KTs

— Uganda Red Cross Soc (@UgandaRedCross) October 4, 2018

Heavy rains have also destroyed homes and claimed the lives of two people elsewhere in Uganda.

Destructive rains leave people in Adjumani – Pagirinya (Northern Uganda) in tears.
-Several homes and property destroyed
– Two deaths @UgandaRedCross on ground to complete rapid assessment for possible support. @robert_kwesiga @OPMUganda @IFRCAfrica pic.twitter.com/wiIqRFTPEG

— Irene Nakasiita (@inakasiita1) October 4, 2018

A warning about heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning was recently issued by the Uganda National Meteorological Authority.

Source: BBC