By James Innocent
More than 17 people were struck by lightning on Sunday during a funeral prayer gathering in Nyongwe Sub-Boma in Yei River County, leaving several victims unconscious and others injured, according to local medical officials.
The incident occurred during heavy rainfall as mourners gathered under a mango tree for funeral prayers. Witnesses said the lightning strike happened while people were eating during the ceremony.
Medical personnel at Yei Civil Hospital confirmed receiving at least 17 victims for treatment following the incident.
Abai John, a medical worker at the hospital, said five of the victims were admitted unconscious, while others sustained minor injuries.
“We received 17 cases at the hospital. Five people were unconscious, while others suffered less severe injuries,” he said.
He added that the victims were struck while sheltering near a mango tree during the rainstorm.
Towongo Moses, a resident of Nyongwe Sub-Boma and a medical staff member at the hospital, said the majority of those affected were women.
“Some of the women fainted immediately after the strike, while others sustained injuries from the lightning,” he explained.
One of the victims, Nema Rose, said she suffered injuries on the left side of her head and was experiencing severe pain.
Another victim, Sida Jane, also reported intense pain, saying her head was the most affected part of her body.
Religious leaders later gathered at the hospital to pray for the victims and comfort affected families following the incident.
Authorities and medical teams continue to monitor the condition of the injured as local officials and eyewitnesses provide further updates on the incident.