A thunder and lightning strike have claimed the lives of 21 cows in Kowie, a community in the Sissala East Municipality, during a rainfall.
Per reports the cows sought shelter under a tree when the thunderstorms occurred.
Sixteen of the cattle belonged to an unnamed herdsman settled in the community, while the remaining five belonged to Mr. Thomas Tipuri, a community member.
In response to the tragedy, traditional priests performed rituals before removing the carcasses. The owners’ families were devastated by the loss.
Community member Mr. Yakubu Abu expressed shock, noting that such an incident had never occurred in the community.
Lightning typically strikes tall objects like trees or poles, but it is possible that the lightning struck a nearby object and traveled through the ground to affect the cows.
The Ghana Meteorological Authority has advised against seeking shelter under trees or tall objects during a storm and recommended finding low-lying areas for safety.
“If you are caught outside during a storm, it is important to avoid sheltering under trees or other tall objects and to seek shelter in a low-lying area if possible”, Madam Francesca Martey of the Ghana Meteorological Authority advised.