Lightning Strikes Claimed 24 Lives In Western India State Of Gujarat

Lightning Strikes Claimed 24 Lives In Western India State Of Gujarat

According to government officials, recent lightning strikes in the Indian state of Gujarat have caused the unfortunate death of 24 people, with an additional 23 individuals injured in rain-related incidents.

The state experienced heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and hailstorms over the past two days.

Some areas received up to 144mm (5.7 inches) of rain in the 24-hour period ending Monday morning, causing damage to houses and loss of cattle.

Gujarat Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel said on Monday that, “We will begin a survey soon to assess the loss suffered.”

He added that compensation will be paid to victims on the basis of the survey’s results.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted continued rainfall in certain parts of the state. It is noteworthy that Gujarat typically does not experience such intense rainstorms during the winter months, catching many residents off guard.

This is not the first time the state has faced rain-related calamities, as similar incidents occurred in August 2020 and August 2019, resulting in the loss of lives.

While India witnesses numerous fatalities each year due to flash floods and lightning, scientists emphasize that the escalating global temperatures are contributing to a rise in extreme weather events.