Seven people died and 40 others, including children, were injured after a crèche was struck by lightning in Pongola, northern KwaZulu-Natal, the SABC reported on Saturday.
Parents and children were gathered in the crèche’s hall for a Christmas party when lighting hit the building, the provincial department of social development told the public broadcaster.
Two parents, two teachers and three other staff members died on the scene. The injured sustained serious burns and were rushed to Itshelejuba Hospital.
Itshelejuba Hospital infection control manager Thoko Nkosi confirmed that 40 people were admitted around 15:00 on Friday after they were hit by lightning. Among the 40, five were children aged between five and six years old, she said.
“About two adults and one child are in a serious condition. Others were transferred to the nearby Benedictine Hospital. The rest are being treated for moderate burns,” she said.
– SAPA
