Keonjhar, Sept. 17 (UDN): Two people, including a 19-year-old man and a woman, were killed in separate lightning strike incidents in the Anandapur area of Odisha’s Keonjhar district on Wednesday.

The incidents took place in Padmapur and Kantipal villages, leaving both communities in shock and mourning.

19-year-old dies while working in field

The first incident was reported from Padmapur village under Anandapur police limits.

According to local residents, the 19-year-old victim, identified as Pappu Sahu, had gone to a vegetable field along with his father to cover cabbage crops when lightning struck him.

The young man reportedly collapsed and became unconscious following the strike. He was rushed to a nearby hospital in a vehicle, where doctors declared him dead.

A local resident said Pappu was a student and was known in the village for his polite and friendly nature. His sudden death has left the family and villagers devastated.

Woman struck near house

In a separate incident, Sabita Barik, a resident of nearby Kantipal village, died after being struck by lightning.

According to locals, the woman had stepped towards the entrance of her house when lightning struck during the storm.

The two incidents occurred in different villages on the same day, triggering concern among residents as thunderstorms and lightning continue to pose a serious threat during periods of heavy rain.

Calls for assistance to families

Residents have urged the government to extend assistance to the families of both victims. They also appealed to people to remain alert during thunderstorms and move to safe shelters instead of staying in open areas.

The incidents once again highlight the risks posed by lightning in rural areas, particularly for people working outdoors during thunderstorms.