At least 33 people have lost their lives and dozens more sustained injuries following a series of intense lightning strikes in eastern India’s Bihar State this week, authorities confirmed on Friday.
According to an official statement from the Bihar State Disaster Management Department, the fatalities occurred between Wednesday and Thursday during severe monsoon storms.
The majority of the victims were reported to be farmers and labourers who were working outdoors at the time of the lightning strikes, making them particularly vulnerable.
Disaster Management Minister Vijay Kumar Mandal said the state was responding with heightened alerts in high-risk districts. “We have directed all district officials to intensify public awareness campaigns to help residents take precautionary measures when lightning alerts are issued,” he stated in a press briefing to AFP.
India’s monsoon season, which typically spans from June to September, brings much-needed rain but also poses recurring dangers in the form of flash floods, landslides, and deadly lightning storms—particularly in the eastern and northeastern regions. Bihar, one of India’s most densely populated states, is among the worst-hit each year.
In the wake of the latest fatalities, the Bihar government has announced a compensation package of 4 million rupees (approximately $4,600) for the families of each deceased victim. “This is a tragic loss for many rural communities, and we are committed to offering relief and preventive guidance,” Mandal added.
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Despite annual efforts to mitigate such risks, lightning remains a persistent threat. Government figures revealed that in 2024 alone, lightning killed at least 243 people in Bihar, a number that rose from 275 the previous year. Experts say climate change and deforestation have contributed to the growing intensity and frequency of these storms.
Meteorological departments continue to warn of more heavy rain and lightning in the days ahead, urging the public to remain indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open fields, tall trees, or metal objects when outdoors. In rural parts of Bihar where access to timely weather updates remains limited, state authorities are now working with local radio stations and community leaders to expand awareness campaigns.
As emergency response teams remain on standby across vulnerable districts, state disaster officials are also coordinating with local healthcare centers to treat those injured during the storms.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously emphasized the importance of investing in lightning detection technology and public education to reduce fatalities. However, implementation across poorer states like Bihar has been inconsistent due to infrastructure and funding challenges.
Meanwhile, Bihar braces for more rains, as the monsoon season enters its peak in the coming weeks.
Punch Newspaper
