In a heart-wrenching incident highlighting the deadly impact of extreme weather, lightning strikes claimed the lives of two women and left three others injured in Uttar Pradesh’s Bhadohi district on Saturday. The victims were working in agricultural fields when the sudden strikes occurred in separate villages.
Police said 55-year-old Sudhna Devi was fatally struck by lightning in Samdha Khas village while tending to crops. Her relatives, Rita Devi, 42, and her 18-year-old daughter Antima, suffered serious burns and are currently undergoing treatment at a local community health centre.
In a separate incident in Hathia Dih village, 19-year-old Sonam Saroj died on the spot after being hit by a lightning bolt. Her cousin, 20-year-old Sandhya Saroj, was injured and also admitted for treatment. Aurai Police Station SHO Ram Sarikh Gautam confirmed the details and added that emergency assistance was provided swiftly.
These tragic events come amid rising concerns over the frequency and intensity of lightning strikes in India, often linked to erratic monsoon patterns and climate change. Authorities are urging citizens to avoid open fields and seek shelter during thunderstorms.