Four women killed by lightning in Rumbek

RUMBEK – At least four women, including two young girls, were killed by lightning strikes in Nyangkot village, Rumbek Central County, during heavy rains on Wednesday and Thursday, local government officials said.

Dut Manak Akuot, Commissioner of Rumbek Central County, expressed condolences to the families of the victims. He said the first incident occurred around 4:00 PM on Wednesday when lightning struck a group of people fetching water at a hand pump.

“Two women, one pregnant and one lactating, and two young girls died on the spot,” Akuot told Sudans Post yesterday. “According to witnesses, they were seeking shelter from the rain when the lightning struck.”

A second incident occurred on Thursday morning at a house in Nyangkot village. The house was struck by lightning, but all five occupants, including the head of the household, Matit Mayek, survived. The house was burned down, destroying their belongings.

“With the heavy rains expected this year, we urge communities to take precautions,” Akuot said. “If you see signs of rain or heavy clouds, stay indoors and avoid gathering in open spaces or under tall trees, which attract lightning strikes.”

Rumbek State Hospital Medical Director Terran Madit Terran confirmed the deaths of two women from the Wednesday incident. He said lightning strikes are a natural phenomenon and urged people to take safety measures during storms.

“Lightning strikes are electric shocks, and we treat them like other such cases,” Terran said. “During heavy rains, switch off all electrical appliances, avoid using phones, and turn off radios and laptops. There are lightning protection devices available for homes and offices, but they are not essential.”

Terran urged people to seek medical attention for survivors of lightning strikes.

“There are misconceptions that lightning strikes are caused by supernatural force. We, as medical professionals, understand them as electric shocks and can provide proper treatment,” he said.

“Traditional treatment methods can be continued alongside medical care, but it’s crucial to bring the victim to the hospital for proper evaluation and care, especially for dehydration, a common complication,” he added.