A 30-year-old worker has died after being struck by lightning while working at a fish farm off Lim Chu Kang coast, in a tragic incident that has once again highlighted the dangers of outdoor work during Singapore’s storm season.
The fatal incident took place on May 5 at around 4pm near 691 Lim Chu Kang Road, an address linked to the Singapore Food Agency’s Lim Chu Kang Jetty. According to authorities, the worker was employed by F20W, a company operating at the site, reported The Straits Times.
The man reportedly lost consciousness after being struck by lightning during worsening weather conditions in the area. The Singapore Civil Defence Force transported him to Woodlands Hospital, but he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Singapore Police Force and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) are currently investigating the incident.
MOM Urges Workers To Seek Shelter During Storms
Following the accident, MOM reminded employers and workers to take weather warnings seriously, especially those involved in outdoor industries such as construction, marine operations, agriculture and fish farming.
The ministry advised workers to immediately stop outdoor activities and seek shelter once there are signs of approaching thunderstorms or official weather alerts. Workers should also wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before resuming work outdoors.
Singapore’s weather has been particularly unstable in recent weeks, with the National Environmental Agency issuing heavy rain alerts across multiple parts of the island on May 5. Southern, eastern and central Singapore reportedly experienced intense rainfall and thundery showers later that evening.
Earlier weather advisories from the Meteorological Service Singapore had already warned that the first half of May would likely see frequent afternoon thunderstorms across the country.
Singapore Experiences High Lightning Activity Yearly
According to Meteorological Service Singapore data, the country experiences an average of 176 lightning days each year, making lightning-related risks a significant workplace safety concern for outdoor workers.
Lightning strikes in Singapore are not uncommon due to the nation’s tropical climate, high humidity and frequent convective storms. Open coastal areas, fish farms and offshore worksites may face even greater exposure during severe weather conditions.
The latest death has sparked renewed conversations about workplace safety protocols, emergency preparedness and weather monitoring systems for employees working in exposed outdoor environments.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to review whether proper safety measures were in place at the time of the incident. The case also serves as a sobering reminder for businesses and workers alike to prioritise safety whenever storm conditions develop rapidly across Singapore.