25 killed in lightning strikes across Bihar; Delhi gets relief from heat as rain hits, thunderstorm likely today

In Bihar, a severe storm caused major destruction on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Lightning strikes and hailstorms killed 25 people across different parts of the state. According to reports from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), most of these deaths happened in Nalanda, where 18 people lost their lives. Other districts like Siwan, Katihar, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, and Jehanabad each reported one or two deaths.

The deadly weather came just a day after 13 more people were killed by lightning in Bihar on Wednesday. The back-to-back storms have left families in grief and fear. Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav claimed that more than 50 people may have died in total due to storms, lightning, and accidents like tree and wall collapses. In a post on social media, he expressed his sorrow and offered condolences to the affected families.

He said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of more than 50 people in various incidents of storm, rain, lightning, tree and wall collapse in Bihar. I express my deepest condolences. May God provide strength to the families affected by the disaster in this hour of grief.”

Meanwhile, the weather department has warned that heavy rains may continue in several districts of Bihar on April 11 and 12. These include Madhubani, Darbhanga, East and West Champaran, Gopalganj, Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul, Gaya, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Nalanda, Nawada, and Patna. People living in these areas are advised to stay safe and avoid open areas or tall trees during lightning.

The state government has also asked local authorities to stay alert and prepare for more damage if storms continue. Rescue and relief efforts have been started in the affected districts to help families who have lost their homes or loved ones.

Delhi sees light rain and cloudy sky

While Bihar is facing storm damage, Delhi saw a change in weather too. After several days of extreme heat, parts of the national capital received light rainfall on Thursday. The sky turned cloudy and the rain brought some relief from the heatwave that had affected people earlier this week.

On Thursday, Delhi’s weather stations recorded high temperatures despite the rain. The Ridge area reported 40.9 degrees Celsius and Ayanagar saw 40.2 degrees Celsius. At Safdarjung, the temperature reached 39.6 degrees Celsius, which is 4.5 degrees above normal. Even the minimum temperature in the city was recorded at 25.9 degrees Celsius — six degrees above normal. This was the highest night temperature in April recorded in the past six months.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that the weather in Delhi will remain similar on April 11 and 12. The forecast says people can expect cloudy skies, thunderstorms, and light rain on both days. The change in weather may lead to falling of tree branches, temporary power cuts, and traffic problems in some parts of Delhi-NCR.

The IMD has advised commuters to be careful while travelling, especially if there are strong winds or lightning. People should avoid standing near electric poles or under trees during a storm. It is also important to stay away from water bodies and metal objects when there is lightning.

The weather department further mentioned that from April 13, Delhi may see only light rain without any thunderstorm. By April 14 and 15, the sky is expected to become clear again. But another shift in weather may happen on April 16 and 17, with strong daytime winds likely to blow across Delhi.

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Warnings issued for safety

Due to the expected thunderstorms and rainfall, authorities have issued warnings for people to stay alert. Sudden weather changes can cause traffic jams, road blockages, and electricity problems. People are asked to check weather updates and road conditions before heading out. It is also advised not to touch open wires or stand near electric equipment during bad weather.

The sudden rain on Thursday was visible at key places like India Gate and Kartavya Path, where people were seen taking shelter. Though the rain was light, it cooled down the air slightly and gave some relief from the scorching temperatures.

Delhi’s residents had been facing high temperatures since early April. Heatwaves are dangerous and can cause health issues like dehydration, heat stroke, and exhaustion. Many people welcomed the light drizzle on Thursday as a break from the intense heat.

The capital city usually starts experiencing summer conditions in April, but this year’s early heatwave pushed temperatures above 40 degrees in some areas much sooner. The IMD is closely watching the weather developments and will issue fresh alerts if the conditions change.

Storm risk still not over

Experts say that lightning strikes, like those in Bihar, are becoming more common due to sudden weather changes caused by climate shifts. India has seen a rise in lightning-related deaths in recent years, especially during the pre-monsoon months of April and May. The government has been urged to create stronger early warning systems and help farmers and rural residents who are more exposed to open environments during storms.

People in both urban and rural areas are encouraged to download weather apps and follow official advisories from the IMD or disaster management authorities. Schools, colleges, and offices have also been advised to remain alert and make emergency plans for staff and students in case of sudden weather emergencies.

Bihar’s tragedy and Delhi’s shifting weather both show how quickly natural conditions can change. While some parts of the country are seeking shelter from intense heat, others are fighting deadly storms. The combination of heatwaves, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall is a challenge for disaster management teams, who must act fast to save lives.

To sum up, Delhi received a break from the heat on Thursday with some light rain and clouds, but the temperatures remained high. More rain and thunderstorms are expected in the coming days, and people have been advised to be cautious.

Meanwhile, Bihar suffered a terrible disaster as lightning strikes and hailstorms killed 25 people in one day. The state may see more heavy rainfall over the weekend, and people are being warned to stay safe indoors.

Weather events like these show that nature can change suddenly and cause harm if we are not prepared. It is important to follow safety advice and stay alert during such weather conditions. Both state and central governments are expected to help the affected areas and take steps to prevent more loss of life.