Uganda: 14 dead and 34 injured when lightning strikes church during service

• On Saturday, November 2, worshipers who had gathered for prayers at a church in the Palabek Refugee Settlement Site were struck by lightning
• Ugandan police confirmed the incident and stated that they were yet to identify the victims
• Authorities also said that 34 people who suffered injuries were rushed to Paluda Health Center III

Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings with her over three years of reporting experience politicsnews and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

Uganda – Disaster struck on Saturday, November 2, when lightning struck bolt hit a church in the Palabek refugee camp, killing 14 people and injuring 34 others.

The incident happened around 5:30 pm when worshipers were gathering for prayers.

According to Ugandan police, heavy rain began to fall during the service, followed by a strong thunderstorm.

How were fourteen Ugandan believers murdered?

Moments later, the church was struck by lightning, causing a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. Authorities said the victims had gathered at the church for a prayer meeting as the storm intensified and culminated in the deadly strike.

“On November 2, 2024, an incident occurred in Lamwo district where lightning killed 14 people and injured 34 others. The incident happened during a prayer service at a church in Zone 8, Block 2. in Palabek settlement camp. The victims, who were yet to be identified, had gathered for prayers when rain started around 5pm and lightning struck at 5.30pm,” the police report said.

Police spokespeople have confirmed that the identities of those affected are still being determined.

Emergency workers quickly arrived on the scene and transported the injured to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

“Victims were evacuated to Paluda Health Center III,” police added.

SDA pastor dies in road accident in Oyugi

In other news: Seventh-day Adventist Pastor Ken Odira tragically died in a traffic accident in Oyugis while returning from Sabbath service.

Odira was initially taken to Agoro Sare District Hospital but due to his critical condition he had to be transferred to Oasis Hospital Kisii and later to Tenwek Hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.

Speak with TUKO.co.kehis sister revealed that Odira planned to formally formalize his wedding on Sunday, November 3.

Source: TUKO.co.ke