Officials reported on Friday that lightning strikes have claimed the lives of at least four individuals in Bihar, India.
In the past 24 hours, heavy rains and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning have hit several parts of the state, affecting seven districts.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s office, “In the past 24 hours, lightning has caused two deaths in Siwan and one each in Supaul and Rohtas districts.”
Reports indicate that most casualties occurred when lightning struck people working in fields or seeking shelter under trees during the storm.
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Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and announced financial relief for them.
“The Chief Minister has announced an ex-gratia payment of INR 400,000 (approximately $4,788) to the next of kin of the deceased,” stated a government spokesman.
Kumar has also urged residents to stay vigilant during severe weather and to adhere to guidelines issued by the disaster management department, such as remaining indoors during thunderstorms.
This follows another incident on Monday when lightning killed 12 people in the state. Reports indicate that over 40 individuals have lost their lives to lightning strikes in Bihar over the past two weeks.
Each year, hundreds of people in India die due to lightning strikes with the onset of the monsoon season.
