Three Family Members Killed in Lightning Strike in Odisha’s Koraput

Koraput, May 14: In a tragic incident, three members of a family, including a young girl, lost their lives after being struck by lightning in Odisha’s Koraput district on Wednesday afternoon.

The incident took place around 12:30 PM in Kandha Putabandha village under Pottangi block. According to local police, the victims were working in a nearby field when a thunderstorm suddenly broke out. Seeking shelter, they took refuge under a tree, where they were fatally struck by lightning.

The deceased have been identified as 49-year-old Gamel Krishna, his 13-year-old daughter Gamel Kami, and their 35-year-old relative, Gamel Tumbai. All three died on the spot.

Local authorities have reached the site and initiated further proceedings. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem. Officials said compensation would be provided to the bereaved family under the state’s disaster relief norms.

Frequent lightning strikes during the monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons pose a serious threat in several parts of Odisha. Authorities have advised residents to avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms.