
Key Highlights:
At least 13 people were killed after lightning strikes hit four districts in Bihar—Begusarai, Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Samastipur—on Wednesday morning, according to an official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
District-Wise Fatalities Reported
The CMO detailed the casualties as follows:
- Begusarai: 5 killed
- Darbhanga: 4 killed
- Madhubani: 3 killed
- Samastipur: 1 killed
The severe thunderstorm, accompanied by heavy rain and hail, caused destruction across the region.
Tragic Deaths Amid Rural Activity
In Madhubani’s Piprauliya village, Durga Devi (45) was struck by lightning while covering firewood. Local SHO Balwant Kumar confirmed her body was sent for post-mortem.
In Begusarai’s Bhagatpur, Viral Paswan (60) died, and his wife, Jitni Devi, sustained burns while gathering wheat straw just 200 metres from their home.
CM Nitish Kumar Expresses Condolences
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conveyed his sympathies to the grieving families and announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh for each of the deceased’s next of kin. He also urged the public to follow safety guidelines issued by the Disaster Management Department.
Lightning Continues to Threaten Lives in Bihar
According to the Bihar Economic Survey 2024–25, a staggering 275 deaths due to lightning or thunderstorms were recorded in 2023, highlighting the recurring threat to life from extreme weather in the state.
FAQs
Q1: How many people were killed by lightning in Bihar on April 9, 2025?
A total of 13 people lost their lives due to lightning strikes in four districts of Bihar.
Q2: Which district reported the highest number of casualties?
Begusarai recorded the highest toll with 5 deaths.
Q3: What compensation has the government announced for the victims?
The Bihar government has announced ₹4 lakh as financial assistance to the families of each deceased victim.
Q4: What areas were most affected by the storm?
Begusarai, Darbhanga, and Madhubani experienced severe destruction due to the storm, rain, and hailstorm.
Q5: How has lightning impacted Bihar in previous years?
In 2023 alone, lightning and thunderstorms claimed 275 lives in Bihar, according to the state economic survey.
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