Kinyarwanda
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Why Is Rwanda Experiencing Heavy Rains with Frequent Lightning?
The Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA) has confirmed that within just eight days of August 2025, heavy rains with thunderstorms triggered six lightning incidents that killed three people, injured six others, and killed one cow. Two of the victims were from Burera District, while the third was in Rutsiro.
According to MINEMA, August is a transitional month when Rwanda shifts from the dry season (Impeshyi) to the rainy season (Umuhindo). This change creates atmospheric instability, leading to intense storms, heavy rains, and frequent lightning strikes. Compared to the same period in previous years, August 2025 has recorded heavier rains than usual, making the storms more destructive.
In addition to lightning, floods also occurred during this period, damaging houses, warehouse of crops, and destroying one bridge, while strong winds left at least five houses damaged. These combined disasters underscore the increasing risks linked to seasonal shifts and climate variability.
MINEMA has urged the public to adopt strict safety precautions, including staying indoors during storms, avoiding shelter under trees, not using phones during heavy rains, unplugging electrical appliances, keeping away from metallic objects and telecommunications antenna towers. The ministry also recommends installing lightning conductors in schools and community centers to reduce fatalities.
MINEMA emphasized that vigilance and preparedness are essential in protecting lives and property from the growing impact of weather-related disasters.
