69 Killed from Thunderstorm in India’s Bihar State Alone
At least 69 killed from thunderstorm incidents in India and Nepal this week, as unusually severe weather ripped through the region, causing widespread destruction. In India’s eastern Bihar state, the death toll reached 61 by Saturday, according to the state’s disaster management department.
The powerful thunderstorms, which struck on Thursday and Friday, were accompanied by intense lightning and torrential rain. The storms uprooted trees, damaged homes, and severely impacted rural communities across Bihar.
8 More Deaths in Nepal
Nepal also reported eight deaths from lightning strikes on Wednesday and Thursday. Local authorities confirmed that these lightning-related incidents were scattered across different districts, adding to the regional devastation.
With 69 killed from thunderstorm activity in just two days, officials have sounded alarms about the escalating danger of extreme weather events in South Asia.
Experts Blame Climate Change as 69 Killed from Thunderstorm Events
Climate scientists have long warned about the rising intensity of weather patterns due to global warming. Researchers now believe that the 69 killed from thunderstorm activity this week is another grim indication of what’s to come.
A 2023 climate report highlighted India’s growing vulnerability to lightning strikes, noting that lightning-related fatalities have surged in the past decade. India now records nearly 1,900 lightning deaths annually, with Bihar among the hardest-hit states.
Between 1967 and 2020, lightning strikes were responsible for over 101,000 deaths in India. Researchers at Fakir Mohan University in Odisha observed a sharp rise in lightning fatalities from 2010 to 2020, suggesting an alarming trend.
More Rain Forecast After 69 Killed from Thunderstorm Disasters
Meteorological departments have issued fresh warnings, predicting more heavy rain in Bihar through the weekend. This raises further concerns for vulnerable populations still recovering from Thursday and Friday’s storms.
Emergency crews have been deployed to provide relief and assess damage. Temporary shelters and food supplies are being arranged in areas where infrastructure was destroyed.
Government Responds After 69 Killed from Thunderstorm Shock
In response to the 69 killed from thunderstorm, the Bihar government has pledged compensation for victims’ families and ordered a comprehensive review of disaster preparedness in the state. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors during lightning storms and to follow safety advisories strictly.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is also ramping up its public awareness campaigns to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters. Mobile alerts and regional broadcast systems are being strengthened to improve early warning mechanisms.
