Tragic Lightning Strikes Claim Nine Lives in Odisha Amid Severe Thunderstorms

Devastating Weather Events

On May 16, 2025, a series of lightning strikes during intense thunderstorms resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals in various districts of Odisha. Among the deceased were six women and two minors, highlighting the severe impact of the weather conditions.

The fatalities were reported from districts including Koraput, Jajpur, Ganjam, Dhenkanal, and Gajapati. In Koraput, three women from one family—Brudhi Mandinga (60), her granddaughter Kasa Mandinga (18), and Ambika Kashi (35)—lost their lives when lightning hit the makeshift shelter they sought refuge in during the storm in Paridiguda village. Additionally, a 65-year-old man, Hingu Mandinga, suffered serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the Lakshmipur Community Health Centre.

In Jajpur district, two boys, Tare Hembrum (15) and Tukulu Chattar (12), were struck by lightning while standing on the verandah of a house in Burusahi village, which falls under the jurisdiction of Jenapur police station.

Ganjam district also reported two fatalities: a 23-year-old woman was killed while gathering mangoes in the Belaguntha area, and a class 7 student, Om Prakash Pradhan, died in Barida village of Kabisuryanagar tehsil.

In Dhenkanal, a woman named Surushi Bishwal (40) was fatally struck by lightning in Kusumundia village, located in the Dashipur panchayat. Another woman in Gajapati district died while unloading bricks from a tractor trailer in the Mohana area during the storm.

Weather Alerts and Government Response

In light of these tragic events, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail, and strong winds reaching speeds of 60 to 70 km/h across several districts, including Koraput, Cuttack, Khurda, Nayagarh, Jajpur, Balasore, and Ganjam. The IMD has advised residents to remain indoors and take necessary precautions during these hazardous weather conditions.

The state government has committed to providing financial assistance to the families affected by this disaster, in accordance with established relief protocols.