Lightning strikes in India's Gujarat kill 24
In the western Indian state of Gujarat government officials reported that twenty-four individuals have tragically lost their lives due to lightning strikes, while approximately 23 others sustained injuries in rain-related incidents over the past 48 hours. The state continues to experience rainfall as of Monday morning.
Gujarat witnessed heavy rainfall coupled with thunderstorms and hailstorms on Sunday and Monday. According to data from the state government, certain areas received as much as 144 mm (5.7 inches) of rainfall within the 24-hour period leading up to Monday morning.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued forecasts indicating the likelihood of continued rainfall in specific parts of the state throughout Monday.
The state of Gujarat has unfortunately faced similar rain-related calamities in the past. In August 2020, 14 individuals lost their lives within just two days due to various incidents linked to heavy rains and subsequent flooding. August 2019, 31 people lost their lives in rain-related incidents within the state.