Lightning strike claims five lives in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Lightning strike at various places in Odisha claimed lives of at least five persons today.

Two minor boys were killed in a lightning strike at Odinga village under Belpada police limits in Balangir district today. The deceased have been identified as Ishwar Boa (13) and Purnananda Bhoi.

According to reports, the two went near a mango tree to pluck fruits this morning. In the meantime, rainfall accompanied with lightning took place.

The duo decided to stay under the tree during the shower. Unfortunately, they were killed as lightning struck the mango tree.

The half-burnt bodies were recovered from the spot. Police have started investigation into the matter.

In a similar incident, Dhuku Kunji (27) of Jholapadar village under Ghadial police limits in Nuapada district was killed in a lightning strike during nor’wester while he was returning home today with his 3-year-old son after taking bath in a pond.

Similarly, a youth of Bankel village in Titlagarh and a woman of Kalasaria village near Rourkela were killed in lightning strikes.