Thirteen people were killed after being struck by lightning in four districts of Bihar, reports news agency PTI, quoting an official statement on Wednesday. According to the statement by the chief minister’s office (CMO), Begusarai reported five deaths, Darbhanga four, Madhubani three, and Samastipur one.
13 killed in lightning strikes in 4 districts of Bihar: CMO statement
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 9, 2025
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed condolences over the deaths and announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased, it said. According to news agency PTI, Kumar appealed to the people of the state to follow advisories issued by the Disaster Management Department, the statement added.
According to the latest Bihar Economic Survey (2024-25) report, tabled in the state assembly during the budget session in February this year, the state witnessed 275 lightning- or thunderstorm-related deaths in 2023.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for several blocks in the state due to the possibility of heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds accompanied by thunderstorms and storms. Among the affected blocks are Saur Bazar, Murliganj, Madhepura, Satarkatiya, Ghailadh, Singheshwar, Banmankhi, Kumarkhand, Bhargama, Shankarpur, Gamharia, Supaul, Triveniganj, Pipra, Marauna, Kishanpur, Ghoghardiha, Pratapganj, Chhatapur, Raghopur, Saraigarh Bhaptiahi, Nirmali, Phulparas, Laukahi, and Basantpur.
The people in these areas have been advised to take necessary precautions and stay indoors during the alert period to ensure their safety.
