bihar-lightning-strikes-claim-25-lives-injure-dozens

At least 25 people lost their lives while 39 others sustained injuries in lightning strikes across Bihar within a span of 24 hours. 

 

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar swiftly responded on Friday by announcing a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for each deceased victim's family. 

 

The fatalities occurred predominantly in Madhubani, Aurangabad, Supaul, Nalanda, Lakhisarai, Patna, and other districts, highlighting the widespread impact of the sudden storms.

 

The Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, noting an alarming trend, reported a total of 50 deaths due to lightning strikes in July alone, although unofficial figures suggest the toll might be higher.

 

As the state grapples with the aftermath, authorities have issued advisories urging residents to remain indoors during rain and thunderstorms.

 

The Meteorological Department issued an 'Orange Alert' for Kishanganj and Araria districts, forecasting continued moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

 

Thursday witnessed a tragic incident at Barka Gaon Village where 22 students were injured when lightning struck a palm tree near their school.

 

Meanwhile, reports from various districts indicated 17 additional individuals suffered burn injuries from lightning strikes.

 

Meteorological data recorded significant rainfall figures across Bihar, including 112.2 mm in Bahadurganj, 52.8 mm in Patna, and varying amounts in districts like West Champaran, Begusarai, Araria, Siwan, Supaul, Rohtas, and Lakhisarai.

 

This recent surge in lightning-related casualties follows an earlier incident on July 7, where ten people lost their lives in similar circumstances across multiple districts.

 

According to an official statement, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's office confirmed two fatalities from lightning in Nalanda district. Additionally, single deaths were reported from Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Saharsa, Rohtas, Saran, Jamui, Bhojpur, and Gopalganj districts each.

 

Nitish Kumar announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each deceased and urged the public to exercise caution during adverse weather conditions.

 

In recent weeks, Bihar has been battered by rainstorms and lightning strikes, resulting in approximately 65 fatalities.