Three schoolchildren killed in lightning strike in Burundi

At least three children were killed and 16 others were injured when lightning struck a school in western Burundi. This was reported by Xinhua news agency on Friday, February 7.

"The total number of people affected by the lightning strike is 19, including 18 schoolchildren and their teacher. Three children died on the spot while the rest were injured, most of them seriously," said Musigati district administrator Joachim Nduwumukama.

He explained that the tragedy happened in the middle of the school day hence there were many children and teachers in the institution.

All those injured in the lightning strike have been referred to hospital, their condition has not been reported.

Earlier, on November 4, 2024, in Peru, in the city of Huancayo, one soccer player died and several others were injured when lightning struck during a match. The region was hit by heavy downpour, lightning and thunder that day. As a result, the teams stopped play. However, when the athletes were leaving for the locker room, lightning struck. It struck next to a defender, and then several other players fell to the ground.