lightning-claims-12-lives-in-jharkhand-imd-issues-alert

Severe weather conditions claimed at least 12 lives and left seven others critically injured in Jharkhand on 13 and 14 July due to lightning strikes across multiple districts. Most victims were struck while working outdoors, particularly in fields.

 

Giridih and Dumka districts were hit hardest, each recording three deaths. In Chara (Dumka), Gita Devi and Anita Devi died on the spot, while Savita Devi suffered severe burn injuries.

 

In Giridih, 18-year-old Dastagir Alam from Madhwadih and 50-year-old Jhari Yadav from Gora Dih were killed. Ashok Mahto and his wife, Pramila Devi, also sustained injuries in the same district.

 

In West Singhbhum, lightning claimed the life of a 14-year-old student from Bharidha village. Elsewhere, two fatalities were reported in Lohardaga, while Gumla and Rajdhanwar districts recorded one death each.

 

Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and remain alert, especially in open areas, as the region remains vulnerable to sudden lightning activity during the monsoon season.

 

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for Jharkhand, warning of heavy rainfall and lightning across the state until 16 July. Since 1 June, the state has received 510 mm of rain—61% above normal—causing significant disruption to daily life and agriculture.

 

The relentless downpour has inundated fields and damaged infrastructure. Paddy cultivation has been severely affected, with over 25% of seedlings reported damaged due to flooding, raising concerns among farmers over crop loss.

 

According to the IMD, the ongoing spell of rain is driven by a cyclonic circulation and a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Rainfall is expected to persist through mid-July.

 

An orange alert has been issued for West Singhbhum, Simdega, Khunti, and Gumla districts, indicating the likelihood of intense rainfall and lightning.

 

Meanwhile, a yellow alert—signalling potentially hazardous conditions—has been sounded for Ranchi, Lohardaga, Giridih, Deoghar, Dhanbad, Jamtara, Saraikela, and East Singhbhum.