A violent thunderstorm that swept through Tatale in Ghana’s Northern Region on Monday evening has reportedly killed more than 20 cattle belonging to a local herdsman, leaving him devastated and facing severe financial losses.
The owner of the animals, Sarkin Amaru, said the tragic incident occurred during a heavy rainfall accompanied by intense lightning and thunder.
Recounting the incident, Mr Amaru explained that he had taken shelter in his hut when the storm suddenly intensified. Moments later, a flash of lightning followed by a loud thunderclap struck near where his cattle were gathered.
According to him, he noticed one of the cows collapse immediately after the strike and rushed outside in an attempt to salvage the animal by slaughtering it. However, he was shocked to discover that several other cattle had also died on the spot.
“In all, more than 20 cattle died instantly,” he lamented, describing the incident as the greatest loss he has suffered in recent years.
The deceased animals reportedly represented the family’s main source of income and livelihood, plunging Mr Amaru and his household into distress.
Residents who visited the scene after the rain expressed shock over the scale of destruction caused by the lightning strike. Some community members described the incident as particularly unfortunate at a time when livestock farmers are already struggling with increasing feeding and maintenance costs.
Mr Amaru said the disaster has left him financially stranded and uncertain about how to support his family.
“I’m appealing to the government, district assembly, individuals and organisations to come to my aid. Any amount will be appreciated,” he appealed.
The incident has renewed concerns about the vulnerability of livestock during extreme weather conditions, especially in open grazing areas where animals remain exposed during storms in the rainy season.
