Three students killed by lightning in northwest

Three students killed by lightning in northwest

Published on Tuesday, 17 September 2013 18:09

A classromm seen after being struck by lightning in Homalin on September 14 (Photo/EMG)

Three students were struck dead and 20 others injured by lightning on September 14 at a school in Homalin Township in northwestern Myanmar, local sources say.

The school is located at Narmaw village in the township.

"Two fifth grade students and a sixth grader from nearby villages were struck dead by the lightning. Others who were injured were sent to nearby Nounpoaung Village Hospital and they are now in stable condition. They were shocked by it," said Aung Soe, who was at the hospital.

Township and district authorities attended the scene of the incident to provide help.

"The school was also struck by lightning last year. A lightning conductor is being prepared for set-up at the school. Other schools should also have the conductors," said local MP U Aye.

There are no large trees where the school is located, and it was not raining when the lightning struck.

"This was the worst event in our history, though we encounter lightning often in this area. We are very sorry to see it. We need to raise public awareness about the danger of lightning," said Myo Zaw from Nounpoaung Village.

http://www.information.myanmaronlinecentre.com/three-students-killed-by-lightning-in-northwest/