Imphal: In a shocking incident, at least one person has reportedly been killed and two others injured by a lightning strike in two separate incidents in Manipur on Sunday.
According to reports, a resident of Kakching district was killed instantly, while his wife sustained injuries when lightning and a thunderstorm struck them while they were on a farm at around 3 pm.
The deceased has been identified as Huidrom Nilakanta, also known as Ithoi Meitei, aged 50, son of the late H Temba of Yangdong Awang Leikai. His wife has been identified as Huidrom Romila, aged 45.
The victim’s house was also severely damaged by thundershower and hailstones, with some parts blown away by strong winds.
In another unfortunate incident, 53-year-old Lourembam Basant Singh sustained severe injuries after being struck by lightning while working in the field around 4 pm. Singh, a resident of Lourembam Maning Leikai, Nambol in Bishnupur district, was taken to Asian Hospital in Kwakeithel, Imphal, for treatment.
Sunday’s heavy rainfall, accompanied by hailstorm and strong winds, has damaged houses, crops, and vehicles in different parts of Manipur.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh has announced relief assistance for those affected to ensure their safety during these trying times.
Meanwhile, due to the prevailing weather conditions in the state, all educational institutions have been closed for two days, namely Monday and Tuesday, as a precautionary measure.