Lightning Kills 33 in Bihar as Monsoon Storms Intensify

Deadly lightning strikes during powerful monsoon storms have killed at least 33 people in Bihar, eastern India, this week. Most of the victims were farmers and laborers caught outdoors during the storms. Officials now warn of more dangerous weather ahead.

Storm Turns Deadly Across Bihar

Between Wednesday and Thursday, heavy monsoon storms swept across Bihar. According to the state’s disaster management department, the lightning-related deaths occurred in multiple districts. Most victims were struck while working in open fields.

Dozens more were injured in these sudden strikes. Emergency services have been deployed in the worst-hit areas to manage the crisis.

Officials Issue Safety Alerts

Bihar’s Disaster Management Minister, Vijay Kumar Mandal, said that local authorities in high-risk zones have been instructed to raise public awareness. He stressed the need for villagers and workers to stay indoors when lightning alerts are issued.

“Officials have been directed to inform residents about precautions after receiving a lightning warning,” Mandal told AFP. He added that extra vigilance is necessary in rural areas where outdoor labor is common during monsoon months.

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State Offers Compensation to Families

In response to the tragedy, the Bihar government has announced financial compensation. Each family of the deceased will receive 4 million Indian rupees (roughly $4,600). The funds are intended to help the victims’ families cope with the sudden loss of income and support.

This measure follows a long-standing policy to compensate victims of natural disasters, especially those from economically vulnerable backgrounds.

Lightning Deaths on the Rise

Lightning has become a leading cause of weather-related deaths in India. Bihar, in particular, has seen a troubling increase over the years. In 2024, at least 243 people died from lightning strikes in the state. The previous year, the toll was even higher at 275.

Meteorologists blame climate change and rising humidity levels for the increasing frequency and severity of lightning incidents in India. They say extreme heat followed by sudden downpours creates perfect conditions for deadly storms.

Rural Workers Most at Risk

Agricultural workers face the greatest risk. In Bihar, farming remains the main source of livelihood for a large part of the population. Many are forced to work outside despite severe weather alerts, especially during the crucial monsoon crop cycle.

Experts suggest improving rural infrastructure, such as early warning systems and safe shelters in fields, could reduce casualties. Educational campaigns about lightning safety have also been recommended.

More Rain and Lightning Expected

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rainfall in Bihar over the coming days. Lightning and thunderstorms are expected to accompany the downpours, especially in the northern and central districts of the state.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid open spaces, refrain from using mobile phones outdoors, and stay away from isolated trees or water bodies during storms.

Local administrations have been placed on alert. Schools may be closed temporarily in affected districts depending on weather developments.

Annual Flooding Adds to Struggles

Apart from lightning, Bihar frequently faces massive flooding during the monsoon season. These floods kill dozens and displace hundreds of thousands of people every year. The combined impact of floods and lightning puts immense pressure on emergency response systems.

Relief camps and temporary shelters are being set up in anticipation of worsening conditions. State and national disaster teams remain on standby as the region braces for more storms.

Urgent Need for Preparedness

As monsoon patterns grow more intense each year, experts call for a broader disaster response strategy. Strengthening communication systems, improving weather forecasting, and providing communities with better access to shelter could save lives.

For now, the people of Bihar remain vulnerable, with more severe weather expected in the days ahead.