Tragic Lightning Strikes Claim Three Lives in Chatra District
In a devastating series of events, three women lost their lives due to lightning strikes in two separate locations within Chatra district, Jharkhand, on Friday. The incidents, confirmed by officials on Saturday, have left the local communities in mourning and highlighted the dangers of severe weather conditions in the region.
Double Tragedy in Jehra Village
The first incident occurred in Jehra village, situated under the Meral panchayat. Two sisters, Poonam Devi, aged 28, and her younger sibling Kalyani, 26, were working in the courtyard of their family home when they were tragically struck by lightning. Both women were married to the same individual, Sanjay Bhuiyan, a 32-year-old earthmover operator, who also sustained injuries in the same incident.
Following the strike, villagers rushed the injured to the Katkamsandi community health centre (CHC) for initial medical attention. Due to the severity of their conditions, they were subsequently referred to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital (SBMCH) in Hazaribag. Despite efforts by medical professionals, doctors at SBMCH declared both Poonam and Kalyani deceased upon arrival. Sanjay Bhuiyan is currently undergoing treatment for his injuries and is reported to be in stable condition. The sisters each leave behind a young son, adding to the profound personal loss for the family.
Separate Fatality in Pathalgada Block
In a concurrent but unrelated event, another lightning strike proved fatal in the Pathalgada block of Chatra district. Sama Parveen, a 35-year-old woman, died after being hit by a bolt of lightning. This incident underscores the widespread nature of the severe weather that affected the area on Friday.
Rakesh Kumar, the officer-in-charge of Pathalgada police station, provided official confirmation of the casualties. "A total of three persons died due to lightning strikes," he stated. "The bodies were handed over to their relatives after a post-mortem examination was conducted." This statement formalizes the tragic toll from the day's weather-related incidents.
Community and Official Response
The lightning strikes have prompted local authorities to reiterate safety advisories during thunderstorms, a common occurrence in the region, especially during the monsoon season. Officials are urging residents to take precautions, such as:
- Avoiding open areas during lightning storms
- Seeking shelter indoors or in safe structures
- Staying away from tall objects and water bodies
These incidents serve as a somber reminder of the unpredictable and often deadly force of natural phenomena. The local administration is likely to review disaster preparedness protocols in light of these fatalities to better protect communities in the future.
