Over 10 Lightning Strike Victims Discharged After 24-Hour Treatment in Yei

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Health authorities at Yei Civil Hospital have confirmed that more than ten patients who were admitted following a lightning strike incident on Sunday have been discharged after receiving treatment for less than 24 hours.

According to eyewitnesses and medical personnel, at least 17 people mostly women from Nyongwe area, located about three kilometers south of Yei town were rushed to the hospital after the incident.

The lightning strike occurred during a funeral prayer service, where mourners had gathered under a mango tree amid heavy rainfall. The sudden strike left several attendees injured, prompting an emergency response from the community and health workers.

Yei River County Health Director, Simon Sebit, confirmed on Tuesday that all the affected patients responded positively to treatment and had been discharged by Monday evening.

“The good thing is that all the patients are okay, and all of them have been discharged to return home,” Sebit said. “I want to thank the Commissioner of Yei River County, the medical doctors and staff at the hospital, and the community for their immediate response.”

He added that the quick coordination between local authorities, healthcare workers, and residents played a key role in ensuring the patients received timely medical care.

Health officials praised the cooperation of the local community, noting that the prompt transportation of victims to the hospital helped prevent further complications.

Efforts to obtain comments from the discharged patients were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

The incident highlights the dangers associated with seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms, a common practice in rural communities. Authorities are urging residents to take precautionary measures during heavy rains to reduce the risk of lightning-related injuries.