Dokolo District, June 6, 2024 – In a heartbreaking incident, three children from the same family in Kangai Sub County, Dokolo District, were struck dead by lightning this afternoon. The deceased have been identified as Adongo Robina, 14, daughter of Okello Jonathan; Amen Jadox, 7, son of Oketi Jasper; and Acen Marion, 5, daughter of Apio Jenifer.
The tragic event occurred at approximately 3 PM, as the children sought refuge from a thunderstorm at their grandfather’s house in Ocikikot B, Angwenya Parish, Kangai Sub County. Rev. Gorge Omia, the Parish Priest of Agoronyut Church of Uganda, visited the bereaved family and provided a detailed account of the incident.
According to Rev. Omia, the children were inside their grandfather Amen Moses’ house when the lightning struck. The grandfather, who survived the incident, described the moment as harrowing. “The thunderstorm was fierce, and we were all trying to stay safe inside. Suddenly, there was a blinding flash of light, and I felt a sharp jolt. When I turned around, the children were on the ground, unresponsive,” he recounted, his voice trembling with emotion.
The children’s bodies were taken to Kwera Health III, where they were pronounced dead upon arrival. Witnesses reported that the storm came on suddenly, with heavy rains and thunder. The lightning struck with such intensity that it caused significant damage to the house.
The community is in shock, and the local authorities are working to provide support to the grieving families and friends. Adongo Robina and Amen Jadox were pupils at Angwenya Primary School, a local institution that now grieves the loss of two of its young students.
The tragedy has sparked a broader conversation about lightning safety in the community. Local leaders and safety officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions during thunderstorms. “This is a devastating loss for our community. We must ensure that everyone understands the dangers of lightning and how to protect themselves,” stated Rev. Omia.
The Dokolo District Disaster Preparedness Committee is set to meet in the coming days to discuss additional safety measures and awareness programs to prevent such incidents in the future. They plan to work closely with schools, religious institutions, and local leaders to disseminate critical information about lightning safety.
Lightning is a natural but deadly phenomenon, especially in regions prone to thunderstorms. According to meteorologists, lightning strikes are common during the rainy season when atmospheric conditions are ripe for thunderstorms. A single lightning bolt can carry up to one billion volts of electricity, making it incredibly dangerous.
Safety experts recommend several precautions during thunderstorms: seeking shelter indoors, avoiding the use of electrical appliances, staying away from water, and staying low and avoiding tall objects.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community of Kangai Sub County is rallying together to support the grieving families. Local organizations, religious groups, and neighbours are providing emotional and financial support to the bereaved. Vigils and memorial services are being planned to honour the memories of Adongo Robina, Amen Jadox, and Acen Marion.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness and safety. As the community mourns the loss of three young lives, there is a collective resolve to ensure that such an incident does not happen again. Educational programs and increased awareness about lightning safety are crucial steps in protecting the community in the future.
The loss of Adongo Robina, Amen Jadox, and Acen Marion is deeply felt across Dokolo DistrictThere was a problem generating a response. Please try again later.
Credit: vol.co.ug……