40jilicom|Lightning strikes kill 4 in India's Bihar

NEW DELHI40jilicom, July 12 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were killed due to lightning in India's eastern state of Bihar, officials said Friday.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning strikes lashed several parts of the state during the past 24 hours affecting seven districts.

"During the past 24 hours, due to lightning, two deaths were reported in Siwan and one each in Supaul and Rohtas districts," a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office said.

Reports said most casualties occurred when lightning struck people working in fields and taking shelter under trees during the rain.

Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed sympathy with the victim families and announced monetary relief for them.

"Chief Minister has announced an ex-gratia payment of INR 400,000 (4,788 U.S. dollars) to the next of kin of the deceased," a government spokesman said.

Kumar has also urged people to remain vigilant in bad weather and follow the suggestions issued by the disaster management department, including staying at home during thunderstorms.

On Monday lightning killed 12 people in the state.

Reports said over 40 people have lost their lives to lightning strikes across Bihar in the last two weeks.

Every year with the onset of monsoon season hundreds die in lightning incidents in India.■