At least 69 people have died this week due to unusually intense thunderstorms sweeping through eastern India’s Bihar state and neighboring Nepal, officials confirmed. The fatalities were caused primarily by lightning strikes, hailstorms, and heavy rain that triggered flash floods and other storm-related incidents.
In Bihar, disaster authorities reported that 61 people lost their lives between Thursday and Friday as a result of the violent weather. The state experienced severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and hail, which caused widespread damage and casualties. Meanwhile, Nepal’s National Disaster Authority confirmed that eight people died from lightning strikes on Wednesday and Thursday, including a 9-month-old infant in the Bajura district.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds across central and eastern India through Saturday. This unseasonal weather event comes ahead of the usual monsoon season, which typically begins in June, and follows a period of extreme heatwaves that have already claimed numerous lives in the region.
Experts warn that the rising frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events are linked to climate change. A study led by Fakir Mohan University highlighted a sharp increase in lightning-related deaths in India, with nearly 1,900 fatalities annually and a 53% rise in lightning strikes between 2019 and 2023. The combination of heat and moisture creates conditions conducive to thunderstorms and lightning, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha.
Authorities have urged the public to take precautions during storms, including avoiding open fields and seeking safe shelter. However, experts criticize local governments for insufficient public awareness campaigns and inadequate disaster preparedness, which could prevent many of these deaths.
The recent storms have also caused power outages and disrupted communications in affected areas, compounding the challenges faced by residents. The ongoing extreme weather underscores the urgent need for enhanced climate resilience and disaster management strategies in India and Nepal.
