By Hou Akot Hou

At least 7 people were killed by lightning on Tuesday at Awuluic village in Aweil Center County, Northern Bahr El Ghazal state, while sheltering in a grass thatched hut.

They had been working at a vegetable farm in Awuluic when the rains started. It was the first rains in Aweil in a long season.

Local authorities identified the victims as Akec Diing Athian, a mother, alongside her two children aged about 7 and 4, as well as 33-year-old Akuol Thiik with her two children. The other victim was a young girl, identified as Ajak.

Dut Bak, the local area chief described the situation as horrific, and said it took people by surprise.  

“I am appealing to the people of Aweil in general to take heart. The victims will be buried in a mass grave. We are calling upon the government to come through and support the bereaved families bury their loved ones,” Dut said.

The official regretted the loss of the young girl, whom she said was a visitor in the area.

Simon Dut Lual, the Awuluic Payam Administrator confirmed the incident, revealed that it took place at 4pm.

“As they were at the vegetable farm, they ran to seek shelter, and they died in such a manner. So, let us all take heart as a people regarding such strange incidences,” he added.