Lightning strike in Uganda

A tragic lightning strike during a prayer service at the Palabek Refugee Settlement in northern Uganda resulted in the deaths of 14 people and injuries to 34 others. The incident occurred around 5:30 PM on Saturday, November 2, while worshippers were gathered in a makeshift church as heavy rain and thunderstorms commenced. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke confirmed that the victims have yet to be identified, and emergency responders quickly transported the injured to local medical facilities for treatment. The Palabek camp primarily houses refugees from South Sudan, which has been plagued by instability since a civil war ended in 2020. Lightning strikes are not uncommon in Uganda, particularly during the wet season, with past incidents resulting in multiple fatalities. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.