Over 10 Hospitalized After Lightning Strike in Yei

At least 17 people have been hospitalized at Yei Civil Hospital after being struck by lightning on Sunday evening in Nyongwe area, about three kilometers south of Yei town.

The incident occurred during a funeral prayer as mourners gathered under a mango tree amid heavy rainfall. Eyewitnesses reported that the lightning strike happened while people were eating during the ceremony.

Medical staff at Yei Civil Hospital confirmed receiving 17 victims for treatment following the incident. According to Abai John, a health worker at the facility, five of the victims were admitted in an unconscious state, while others sustained minor injuries.

“We received 17 cases at the hospital. Five people were unconscious, while others suffered less severe injuries,” he said.

Towongo Moses, a resident of Nyongwe Sub-Boma and also a medical staff member, noted that 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, reported injuries to the left side of her head and complained of severe pain.

Another victim, Sida Jane, also said she was experiencing intense pain, particularly in her head.

Religious leaders later visited the hospital on Sunday evening, where they offered prayers for the victims and comforted affected families.