By Deng Ghai Deng
At least five people including a 15-year-old child have died and 22 others have been injured after being struck by lightning in Bunagok Payam of Awerial County, Lakes State.
The deputy administrator of Bunagok Payam, Martha Aluet Deng, reported that the deceased, all male, were struck while attending a traditional marriage ceremony.
“People were celebrating, and a small storm started with light rain. Everyone ran to seek refuge under a tamarind tree when lightning struck, killing five of them and injuring 22 others who are now in the hospital,” Deng said.
She said the injured are currently receiving treatment at the local health facility.
Lightning is a frequent occurrence worldwide, with an estimated 50 occurrences per second, and 20% of those resulting in ground strikes.
It is estimated that approximately 24,000 fatalities and ten times as many injuries occur annually due to lightning strikes. Many of these incidents are avoidable with proper precautions.