Lightning strike kills three, injures three in Negros Occidental

BACOLOD CITY — Three people were killed and three others injured after lightning struck an open-sided nipa hut in Hacienda Manolo, Barangay DSB, Pontevedra, Negros Occidental, on Oct. 31, 2026.

Police said the fatalities were aged 44, 35 and 60 and were residents of San Enrique and Pontevedra.

Initial investigation showed that the six victims had just finished harvesting palay, or unmilled rice, and were taking shelter inside the hut when lightning struck.

Authorities responded to the incident and rushed the victims to a hospital for medical treatment.

The three fatalities were declared dead at the hospital.

Police said the three injured victims were in stable condition and had been referred to another hospital for further treatment.

The incident highlights the dangers of lightning strikes during thunderstorms, particularly for farmers and other outdoor workers who may seek shelter in open structures.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration advises the public to avoid open fields, isolated trees and exposed structures during thunderstorms.

Enclosed buildings and hard-topped vehicles generally provide better protection against lightning than open-sided shelters.

Police are continuing their investigation into the incident.