news 23 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rain Returns, Sparking Fear of Lightning Strikes in West Nile
As the second rainy season begins in Uganda's West Nile region, residents are increasingly fearful of lightning strikes, a phenomenon that has tragically claimed lives and caused injuries. Many homes, particularly those in rural areas, lack adequate protection against these dangerous electrical discharges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/return-of-rain-leaves-locals-scared-of-lightning-strikes-5605604
The return of the rainy season in Uganda’s West Nile region, typically a period for agricultural activity and relief from heat, is now overshadowed by a growing fear of lightning. This year, the danger feels more acute following a devastating incident on August 1st, where lightning tragically killed six members of a family in Oleba Town Council, Maracha District.
The majority of homes in the affected areas are simple grass-thatched structures, offering no defense against lightning. Even permanent houses with iron roofs are not immune, as many lack essential lightning arresters. This vulnerability extends to educational institutions, putting students and teachers at significant risk.
Residents express a shift in sentiment, with the arrival of rain now evoking anxiety rather than celebration. “When the rain is coming, it is no longer good news or celebration but a matter of life and death,” shared Cynthia Lenia, a resident of Tara Sub-county. The flat terrain of the region makes it particularly susceptible to lightning strikes.
Local authorities acknowledge the severity of the issue, with Maracha District Environment Officer Nola Avako identifying areas like Oleba and Obiba as “hotspots” for lightning. She warned that the return of rain after prolonged droughts is often violent, emphasizing the need for caution. “People should be sensitised on how to manage it when it occurs,” noted Denis Ocircan, a farmer.
Efforts to mitigate the danger are underway, including sensitisation campaigns and efforts to install lightning arresters. However, these initiatives face hurdles due to persistent myths and misconceptions in rural communities, with some attributing lightning to witchcraft. Engineers stress the importance of proper installation and grounding of lightning arresters, with costs ranging from Shs1 million to Shs3 million.
Ministry policy now mandates lightning arresters on all school buildings, a move supported by organizations like the African Centres for Lightning and Electromagnetics Network (ACLENet), which highlights the vulnerability of students gathered in unprotected school structures. As El Nino rains are anticipated, communities in West Nile are urged to prioritize safety measures against lightning strikes.