At least 22 people have been killed by lightning strikes across India’s eastern state of Bihar in the last 24 hours, local media reported on Thursday.

The deaths occurred as heavy rains, thunderstorms, and hailstorms swept through multiple districts on Wednesday, leaving a trail of devastation.

According to India TV, which cited official data, the fatalities were recorded across eight districts. However, a statement from the Bihar Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed 13 deaths in four of the most severely affected areas as of Wednesday evening. Local sources reported that many of the victims were struck while working in open fields during the storms.

The extreme weather also brought strong winds and widespread destruction, with the state government now working to evaluate the full scope of the damage.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed profound grief over the tragedy and offered condolences to the victims’ families. “The Chief Minister has announced an ex-gratia payment of INR 400,000 (approximately 4,649 USD) for the next of kin of each deceased individual,” a government spokesperson said. Kumar also called on residents to stay indoors during adverse weather and adhere to safety guidelines from the state’s disaster management department.

Lightning strikes remain a persistent danger in India, especially during the monsoon season, claiming hundreds of lives annually—many of them farmers and laborers exposed to the elements while working outdoors. The recent spate of deaths underscores the ongoing challenge of protecting vulnerable populations from such natural hazards. (ILKHA)