Public told to take storm safety seriously after Amuru lightning tragedy

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Most people in Acholi and across the country remain unaware of the risks of taking refuge under tall objects during rainfall or thunderstorms, leaving them vulnerable to lightning strikes.

However, George William Omony, principal meteorologist in the Department of Meteorological Services under the Ministry of Water and Transport, has shared key safety precautions to help the public avoid lightning-related dangers.


His public sensitisation followed a tragic incident in Tede village, Amuru sub-county, Amuru district, where four people were struck and killed by lightning around 9 pm on Sunday, October 12.

The victims included 22-year-old Innocent Alimo and her three children — Lamaro, 6, Lisa Amarorwot, 4, and Raphael Ogenrwot, 6 — who were reportedly taking refuge inside their hut when lightning struck.

Omony urged parents to buy rubber-soled shoes for their school-going children as one of the preventive measures.

In November last year, a similar tragedy occurred in Palabek Refugee Camp, Lamwo District, where 14 people were killed and 34 others injured by lightning during a prayer gathering.