Lightning strikes claimed four lives and injured eight individuals in Murambi Sector, Karongi District, on Sunday, January 5.
Gerald Muzungu, the Mayor of Karongi District, confirmed that the incident occurred on Sunday evening when 12 people sought shelter from the rain in a partially constructed house.
“Eight individuals who were traumatized were taken to Kirinda hospital,” he stated, urging residents to avoid seeking refuge in risky areas during rain and thunderstorms.
He also mentioned that the burial of the deceased is scheduled for Tuesday.
The Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management recommends installing lightning rods as a preventive measure against lightning strikes. People are advised against seeking shelter under isolated trees, riding bicycles or motorbikes, swimming, taking elevators in buildings, or sheltering near electric poles during storms.
Those who remain indoors during storms should avoid touching windows and doors, as they often contain metallic elements that can attract lightning. Additionally, all electronic devices should be switched off during rainfall.
While lightning strikes are more frequent in high-altitude areas of southwestern Rwanda, the entire country remains vulnerable due to its location near the Equator. All residents are encouraged to take precautions to prevent lightning-related incidents.
January Weather Forecast
The Rwanda Meteorology Agency predicts rainfall between 0 and 75 millimeters across the country during the first 10 days of January.
– Rainfall between 60 and 75 mm, the highest expected during this period, is forecast for parts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts, as well as western areas of Nyamagabe and Nyaruguru Districts.
– Rainfall between 45 and 60 mm is expected in Karongi, Rutsiro, Rubavu, and Musanze Districts; several areas in Huye, Ngororero, Nyabihu, and Burera Districts; southern Gisagara District; western parts of Nyanza and Ruhango Districts; northern Gakenke; and the remaining parts of Nyaruguru, Nyamagabe, Nyamasheke, and Rusizi Districts.
– Rainfall between 30 and 45 mm is forecast for Muhanga District; many areas in Nyanza, Ruhango, Kamonyi, Rulindo, and Gicumbi Districts; central Gisagara District; and remaining parts of Huye, Ngororero, Nyabihu, and Burera Districts.
– Rainfall between 15 and 30 mm is expected in Kigali City, Amayaga, Bugesera, Ngoma, Rwamagana Districts, parts of Kirehe and Gatsibo Districts, western Kayonza and Nyagatare Districts, and remaining parts of Rulindo and Gicumbi Districts.
– Eastern Province is expected to receive the lowest rainfall, ranging between 0 and 15 mm.
