Bhubaneswar, May 17, 2025: At least nine people, including six women, tragically lost their lives in multiple lightning strikes across Odisha amid severe thunderstorms on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD official website) had issued a red warning for thunderstorms and lightning, urging residents to stay cautious.
The deaths occurred in several districts — three in Koraput, two each in Jajpur and Ganjam, and one each in Dhenkanal and Gajapati — highlighting the widespread impact of the violent weather.
Details of the Lightning Incidents
In Koraput district, three women — Brudhi Mandinga (60), Kasa Mandinga (18), and Ambika Kashi (35) — were killed when lightning struck a makeshift hut where they had taken shelter during heavy rain and strong winds in Paridiguda village. An elderly man, Hingu Mandinga (65), was critically injured and is receiving treatment at the Lakshmipur Community Health Centre.
Jajpur district witnessed the deaths of two boys, Tare Hembrum (15) and Tukulu Chattar (12), who were struck while standing on a verandah in Burusahi village during evening thunderstorms. Authorities have registered an unnatural death case and are investigating the incident.
In Ganjam district, lightning claimed the lives of a 7th-grade student, Om Prakash Pradhan, and a 23-year-old woman collecting mangoes in different parts of the district.
Other fatalities include a woman in Dhenkanal district’s Kusumundia village and another in Gajapati’s Mohana area.
Government Response and Safety Advisory
The Odisha government has assured financial aid for the victims’ families as per existing guidelines. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to weather warnings.
Residents in affected districts are urged to avoid open fields, tall trees, and vulnerable shelters during thunderstorms. For detailed safety tips, visit the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines.
About the IMD Red Warning
The IMD’s red warning indicates the highest level of alert, signaling potentially severe weather events that pose significant risk to life and property. Thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and wind speeds of up to 70 km/h were forecast for Koraput, Cuttack, Khurda, Nayagarh, Jajpur, Balasore, and Ganjam districts.
For continuous weather updates and preparedness, follow the IMD’s real-time Twitter handle.
Related Coverage
- Odisha Floods 2025: Relief Efforts and Rescue Operations
- How to Prepare for Monsoon Storms and Lightning Strikes
- Heatwave Warning Issued for Eastern India: Stay Safe Tips
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing weather situation.