21/08/2026
PROTECTING THE PEOPLE OF LAKES STATE FROM LIGHTNING
By Mr. Makur Ariop
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of students in Rumbek after a lightning strike reportedly claimed four lives at Landmark High School. Many families are mourning, and our thoughts and prayers are with them.
Lightning can kill, but knowledge and early action can save lives.
What Is Lightning?
Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs in the atmosphere, usually during thunderstorms. When electrical charges build up inside a storm cloud, they can discharge between clouds or between a cloud and the ground.
The bright flash we see is lightning, while the sound that follows is thunder.
Lightning can strike people, trees, buildings, animals and other objects. It is a natural phenomenon—not magic—but it is extremely dangerous.
What Should You Do During Thunder and Lightning?
The most important rule is:
GO INSIDE AS SOON AS YOU HEAR THUNDER.
- Enter a substantial building with walls and a roof.
- Close doors and windows.
- Stay away from windows, doors and open verandas.
- Avoid open fields and exposed areas.
- Stay away from rivers, lakes, ponds and other water.
- Do not shelter under isolated trees.
- Avoid unnecessary contact with electrical equipment and plumbing.
- If you are outside with other people, do not crowd together.
If there is absolutely no safe shelter nearby, move away from exposed areas and crouch low only as a last resort. Do not lie flat on the ground. The safest option is always to reach a proper building or enclosed vehicle as quickly as possible.
What About Cars?
A fully enclosed vehicle with a metal roof and closed windows can provide good protection during a lightning storm.
Stay inside the vehicle.
Do not stand beside the vehicle or touch its exterior while lightning is occurring.
What About Cattle and Bells?
Metal does not attract lightning by itself. However, cattle and people in open areas can be struck by lightning, and metal objects can conduct electricity.
When a thunderstorm approaches:
- Move yourself and livestock toward safe shelter where possible.
- Do not hold metal objects such as bells, tools or farming equipment.
- Do not remain in an open cattle camp during a thunderstorm.
- If you are herding cattle and hear thunder, prioritize human safety and seek shelter immediately.
Life is more important than cattle.
Lightning Protection for Schools, Churches and Public Buildings
Lightning protection systems, including properly designed lightning rods and grounding systems, can help protect buildings and the people inside them.
Schools, churches, health facilities, markets and other public buildings in areas frequently affected by thunderstorms should be assessed by qualified electricians or lightning-protection professionals.
A lightning-protection system should not simply be improvised by connecting an iron rod and wire. It needs proper design, grounding and installation to work safely and effectively.
What Can Be Done in Lakes State?
We call upon:
The Lakes State Government to assess vulnerable schools and public facilities and establish a program for installing properly designed lightning-protection systems.
Humanitarian and development organizations to support lightning-safety education and protection systems for schools, health facilities and communities.
Schools and churches to teach children and congregations what to do when thunderstorms approach.
Community leaders, chiefs and youth leaders to spread lightning-safety information in villages and cattle camps.
Radio stations and media organizations to broadcast simple lightning-safety messages in local languages.
A Message to Parents and Teachers
When dark storm clouds approach and thunder begins, do not wait for the storm to become severe.
Students should be moved to safe shelter immediately. Schools should have a clear emergency procedure for thunderstorms, and children should never be left outside unnecessarily during lightning activity.
Final Word
Please share this message with your family, neighbors, friends and church communities.
Teach your children. Inform your students. Speak to your neighbors.
Going inside early can save your life.
While we work toward better lightning-protection systems across Lakes State, knowledge is our first line of protection.
May the students who lost their lives rest in peace.
May God comfort their families and protect the people of Lakes State.
Stay tuned to Hamstar TV.
