Bihar Rains: Lightning Strikes Claim 9 Lives Across 6 Districts, Jehanabad Worst-Hit. CM Nitish Announces Ex Gratia

Bihar Rains: Nine people died from lightning strikes in six Bihar districts. Jehanabad recorded the highest fatalities with three, followed by Madhepura with two.

In the past 24 hours, nine individuals lost their lives due to lightning strikes across six districts in Bihar, officials reported on Saturday. The fatalities occurred in Jehanabad, Madhepura, East Champaran, Rohtas, Saran, and Supaul districts.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his condolences and announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the families of each of the deceased. "My thoughts are with the bereaved families during this difficult time," said CM Kumar, urging citizens to adhere to advisories from the Disaster Management Department to stay safe, as per news agency PTI.

Bihar's Jehanabad Worst Hit By Lightning-Related Deaths

According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office, Jehanabad district was the hardest hit with three deaths, followed by two in Madhepura, and one each in East Champaran, Rohtas, Saran, and Supaul. The state government has called for heightened awareness and caution to prevent further tragedies.

The unconfirmed death toll in lightning strikes stood at 18 on Friday, as per local inputs from Bihar. According to the same, the fatalities occurred in multiple districts: four in Bhagalpur, three each in Begusarai and Jehanabad, two each in Madhepura and Saharsa, and one each in Karakat, Vaishali, and Chapra. However, the Disaster Management Department has officially confirmed only nine deaths so far.

The department has issued an urgent appeal to the public, advising them to avoid fields and roads during heavy rainfall and potential lightning storms. "We urge everyone to stay indoors in concrete buildings during such weather conditions," a spokesperson said.

In response to the ongoing severe weather, the Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy rainfall in several districts of North Bihar. The department has advised people to remain vigilant, minimise outdoor activities during rain, and stay in well-constructed buildings.

"Close windows and doors during lightning storms and avoid standing near open windows, doors, or metal pipes," the Meteorological Department warned.