GUWAHATI: At least 13 people reportedly lost their lives after being struck by lightning across four districts in Bihar — Begusarai, Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Samastipur — according to a statement released by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
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The district-wise breakdown reveals five fatalities in Begusarai, four in Darbhanga, three in Madhubani, and one in Samastipur, as per reports.
Expressing his deep sorrow over the tragic incident, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh for each of the deceased.
The Chief Minister has urged residents to remain vigilant during adverse weather and follow safety protocols laid out by the Disaster Management Department. “In case of bad weather, people are advised to stay indoors and adhere to the instructions issued from time to time to minimize the risk of lightning strikes,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for April 9 and 10 for several districts, including Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, and both East and West Champaran. The IMD also forecasted heavy rainfall in isolated areas of Kishanganj and Supaul on April 10.
The alert includes a warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h in the affected districts.
