Severe monsoon storms in eastern India have claimed the lives of at least 33 people, with dozens more injured due to lightning strikes, officials reported on Friday.
The deadly incidents occurred in Bihar state between Wednesday and Thursday, mostly affecting farmers and daily wage earners working outdoors during the storms, according to the state’s disaster management department.
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State Disaster Management Minister Vijay Kumar Mandal stated that authorities have been instructed to raise public awareness in vulnerable districts and urge residents to take safety precautions during lightning alerts.
The Bihar government has announced a compensation of 4 million rupees (approximately $4,600) for the families of those who lost their lives.
Lightning remains a significant seasonal threat in Bihar. Government records show that 243 people died from lightning strikes in 2024, with 275 fatalities recorded the year before.
Eastern India, including Bihar, is regularly affected by intense monsoon rains, which often bring floods, displacement, and weather-related casualties during the peak season. Weather officials have forecast continued heavy rainfall and more lightning in the days ahead.
