As severe thunderstorms lashed Bihar over a 24-hour period, lightning strikes killed at least 19 people across multiple districts, prompting fresh concerns over the impact of extreme weather. The most affected district, Nalanda, reported five deaths, followed by Vaishali with four. Banka and Patna saw two fatalities each, while Sheikhpura, Nawada, Jehanabad, Aurangabad, Jamui, and Samastipur reported one death each, respectively.
The Bihar government confirmed the toll on Thursday evening, describing the event as a tragic reminder of the region’s vulnerability during monsoon months. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia of ₹4 lakh for the families of the deceased. He also directed district administrations to ensure quick disbursement of the compensation and to stay on alert for further weather disturbances.
In recent years, Bihar has seen a troubling rise in lightning-related fatalities, especially during peak monsoon. Officials have renewed appeals to the public to stay indoors during thunderstorms and to avoid open fields, water bodies, and trees when lightning is likely.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued rains in parts of the state, advising caution and close monitoring of weather updates. Emergency response teams remain on standby as the administration works to mitigate further casualties amid increasingly volatile climate patterns.