Mount Kilimanjaro can be deadly. Although figures for the number of deaths on the mountain each year are difficult to come by (perhaps because releasing them might hurt the tourism industry), the story of a recent death struck home for me. A 43-year-old Irish mountaineer was struck and killed by lightning a few days after we completed our expedition. Most deaths on Kili are probably from pulmonary or cerebral edema. So Ian McKeever’s death by lightning strike was reported in a couple of English-language Tanzanian newspapers simply because it was unusual.
The Daily News reported that it was the first fatal lightning strike in 15 years. The Guardian reported the story this way:
Lightning kills tourist climbing Kilimanjaro
The Guardian Reporter, 4th January 13
A tourist identified as Ian Mc Keever (42) from Ireland died on the spot, after he was hit by lightning while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, with four colleagues being injured.
According to information to the media by the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA) Public Relations Officer Pascal Shelutete deceased was with 21 fellow tourists climbing the Kilimanjaro Mountain through the Londorosi route in Siha district.
He explained that the deceased, died on the way while being rushed to Kibo Moir station for further help.
Shelutete added that TANAPA in collaboration with the deceased’s host tourist company were handling the matter including ensuring treatment of the injured.
Reached for more clarification on the incident, Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander Robert Boaz said he had no information of the death, and promised to follow up the incident.
I’ll get back to recounting my trek up Kili soon.
bradthompsonmedia 