Four districts in Bihar were struck by lightning on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 people. In certain parts of India, the victims perished during erratic weather conditions. Five people died in Begusarai, four in Darbhanga, three in Madhubani, and one in Samastipur, according to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) release. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister, expressed his profound sadness over the deaths and sent his condolences to the deceased’ relatives.
CM Kumar announced an ex gratia of ₹4 lakh to the relatives of those killed in the lightning strikes as part of the government’s relief effort. In order to prevent similar incidents in the future, he further urged the people to closely heed the safety recommendations provided by the Disaster Management Department. The tragedy highlights Bihar’s growing risk of lightning-related fatalities. In 2023 alone, there were 275 lightning and thunderstorm-related fatalities in the state, according to the Bihar Economic Survey 2024–25, which was presented during the state budget session in February.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in Andhra Pradesh from April 9-13. The low-pressure system is over the southwest Bay of Bengal, moving northwards before weakening over the central Bay of Bengal. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain above normal, with Rayalaseema potentially reaching 3 degrees Celsius. Authorities are advising people to remain vigilant and follow safety precautions.
