Patna: Five people were killed and nine others sustained injuries after lightning struck two locations in Khagaria district on Thursday morning, officials confirmed. The incidents occurred around 8 am. In Beldaur block, lightning claimed the lives of 17-year-old Kush Kumar and 35-year-old Jawahar Sharma. In Gogri block, three residents of Baltara village—73-year-old Vidyanand Yadav, 30-year-old Ashutosh Yadav, and his 11-year-old son Ankesh Kumar—also died after being struck.
Government Response and Compensation
Gogri sub-divisional magistrate Rajkumar stated that the families of the deceased had been provided ex gratia assistance of Rs 4 lakh each through the circle officers. A senior district administration official reported that nine others were injured in the incidents. Five individuals are undergoing treatment at Sadar Hospital, one is being treated at a private facility, and the remaining injured are also receiving medical care. All are reported to be in stable condition and are expected to be discharged soon.
Advisory and Weather Warning
Following the deaths, the administration urged residents to remain alert during adverse weather conditions. People have been advised to avoid working in open fields or taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms and to move to safe structures when lightning is anticipated. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning in the coming days for Khagaria and several other districts, including Araria, Begusarai, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Madhepura, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Purnia, Saharsa, Samastipur, Saran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Siwan, Supaul, Vaishali, and West Champaran.
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About the Author
Adwitiya Deb primarily covers crime and civic stories. She has in the past written on varied topics, including the decline of the glass bangle culture, illegal trade of firecrackers in Champahati, West Bengal, apart from many more on food and travel. She has recently completed her PGDM in journalism from Xavier's, Mumbai. She loves music and is very affectionate about animals.
