Topic overview
In brief
- A lightning strike during a football match in Thailand resulted in the death of player Sofwan Awae and injuries to 12 others.
- The incident occurred at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok during the Golok FA Cup tournament.
- The tragedy highlights the dangers of playing sports in adverse weather conditions.
Summary
In a tragic incident in southern Thailand, a football match turned deadly when a bolt of lightning struck the pitch at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok. The event occurred on a Tuesday, resulting in the death of 24-year-old Sofwan Awae, who suffered severe injuries from the strike. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts from his teammates, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident. The match was part of the Golok FA Cup, featuring amateur teams, including SAMCOLTS, where Awae played as a winger. The lightning strike also injured 12 other players, including a 22-year-old Malaysian national, who were subsequently taken to Sungai Kolok Hospital for treatment. The local police confirmed the injuries and the unfortunate death of Awae, highlighting the dangers of playing sports during adverse weather conditions. This incident is part of a broader concern in Thailand, where lightning strikes have claimed numerous lives in recent years. According to the Department of Disease Control, between 2020 and 2024, approximately 283 people were struck by lightning across the country. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of safety measures during outdoor activities, especially in regions prone to thunderstorms. The football community mourns the loss of Awae, with his club, Yala FC, expressing condolences to his family and friends. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for better safety protocols during sporting events, particularly in areas where lightning strikes are common.