At least two people have been confirmed dead and three others critically injured after lightning struck them in Kamira Village, Namagera Town Council, Jinja District.

Kamira Village LC1 Chairman Shaban Lunkude said five victims were offloading sugarcane at a weighbridge when it started drizzling.

According to Lunkude, five sought shelter under nearby jackfruit tree, where they were struck.

"The victims left the truck they were offloading to seek shelter under a nearby jackfruit tree, where lightning struck them, killing two and injuring three others," Lunkude said.

He identified deceased as Hassan Mubiru and Ashraf, both residents of Wansimba-Nakabalale Village in Butagaya Sub-county.

Jinja District LC5 Chairman Moses Batwala urged residents to avoid seeking shelter under trees during rainstorms.

"It is unfortunate that our people have been struck by lightning. However, I appeal to residents to stop taking shelter under trees, especially as the rainy season progresses," Batwala said.

Batwala said he would persuade district councillors to pass resolution requiring all schools to install lightning arresters to prevent similar incidents.

He said he had directed district ambulance driver to transport critically injured victims to Kagoma Hospital for treatment, and pledged to cover medical expenses of three victims receiving treatment.