BUSHENYI – One person has been struck dead by lightning and five others injured on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, in Bushenyi.
Karori Rwamuganga, the LC3 Chairman for Nyabubare sub-county said that the incident occured during a heavy downpour that compelled the deceased and 5 others to seek shelter at her home.
Martial Tumusiime the greater Bushenyi Police Spokesperson confirmed the deadly weather hazard and identified the deceased as Generous Kyomuhangi Busesire 45, who is a resident of Nkuna 1 Nyabubare Parish in Nyabubare Sub County.
Mr. Tumusiime said the other 5 were rushed to KIU Ishaka hospital.
The incident happened on Wednesday afternoon at around 1500hrs during a heavy downpour.
“We were alerted about the incident and we rushed to the scene immediately. We found Kyomuhangi already dead,” Mr. Martial narrated the ordeal.
Mr. Tumusiime advises the public to always take caution and stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that can put you in direct contact with electricity.
Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets. Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
Ms Peace Tibakuna, the Nyabubare sub-County LC5 Lady Councilor appealed to the government to subsidize the cost of lightning arrestors so that people can afford buying them as well as reducing the risks of being hit by lightning.
“It’s my appeal to the government to ensure support to Ugandans in buying these arrestors because some of the families might not afford them at the current prices,” Tibakuna noted.
The incident comes barely three months after five people were struck dead and 25 injured by lightning in Nyakatembe village Bitooma sub-county, in Bushenyi district.
