A 31-year-old man died after reportedly being struck by lightning while using his mobile phone inside his home during a thunderstorm in Buriram province, leaving his wife devastated and prompting renewed warnings about electrical safety during severe weather.
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The victim, Mr Rung Pliengklang, 31, from Bu Krasang subdistrict in Nong Ki district, died after the incident at his home. His funeral is being held at Wat Ban Nong Man in Bu Krasang, where relatives and local residents have gathered to pay their respects. The atmosphere at the temple was one of deep sorrow, with his wife, 29-year-old Ms Supitcha Somporn, remaining beside her husband’s coffin in tears.
According to Ms Supitcha, the incident occurred at approximately 8.30pm on 29 May. Her husband had cycled out to top up his internet credit before returning home and sitting down to use his mobile phone. At the time, heavy rain, lightning and thunder were continuing outside.
She said she repeatedly warned him to stop using the phone and disconnect the charger because of the storm. However, he ignored her concerns and continued using the device as normal.
Moments later, a powerful flash of lightning occurred and a bright burst of light entered the house. Mr Rung was thrown backwards and collapsed. Ms Supitcha rushed to help him but said she felt what seemed to be an electrical current running through his body and instinctively pulled away.
Emergency responders from the Nong Ki Rescue Association were called to the scene and attempted to assist him, but he later died from his injuries. Ms Supitcha said she noticed burn marks on her husband’s chest after the incident.
She believes the lightning strike may have been linked to him using and charging his mobile phone at the same time during the storm, although the exact cause has not been officially confirmed. The tragedy follows several recent lightning-related deaths reported in Thailand and has renewed concerns about safety during severe weather.
Amarin reported that Ms Supitcha urged others to learn from the incident and avoid using mobile phones during thunderstorms, even when indoors. Authorities have not released any further details regarding the circumstances of the lightning strike and are investigating the cause of death.
Pictures courtesy of Amarin
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 31 May 2026
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