In Karongi District, Murambi Sector, Mubuga Cell, reports indicate the death of four people who were struck by lightning on Sunday. In total, 12 people were affected, according to Karongi Mayor Gerald Muzungu, who spoke to Taarifa Rwanda.
The incident occurred in the evening when the victims, including children, sought shelter in a nearby unoccupied house, where the lightning struck them.
Muzungu explained that the victims had taken refuge in an abandoned house close to where the rain caught them.
He stated: “It is true this tragic incident happened. Twelve people, including children, were seeking shelter from the rain when lightning struck them. Four people, including children, died instantly, while the remaining eight were taken to the hospital.”
The mayor urged residents to remain cautious, especially since the district experiences frequent rain and lightning. He advised against seeking shelter in isolated locations or crowding in one place during storms.
He added that if the group had been smaller, the number of fatalities would have been reduced.
Muzungu told Taarifa Rwanda that the deceased will be buried on Tuesday, January 7, 2024, and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
