Relentless rainfall and severe lightning have claimed 24 lives across Maharashtra in the past two days, while injuring 11 people and killing 55 animals, according to the state’s disaster management department.
On Monday, 10 people lost their lives—five due to lightning strikes and five from accidental drowning. Eleven others were injured the same day, including five struck by lightning, four hurt in tree collapse incidents, and two due to drowning. Additionally, lightning strikes led to the death of 55 small animals. 24 Killed by Lightning in Maharashtra in Just 2 Days: Crucial Safety Tips to Stay Safe During Storms.
24 Killed by Lightning in Maharashtra in Just 2 Days: Crucial Safety Tips to Stay Safe During Storms The devastation continued on Tuesday with 13 more fatalities: four due to lightning, one from drowning, and two from falling trees. Authorities warn the toll could rise as the extreme weather persists.
Heavy Rainfall and Winds Batter Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a special advisory, noting exceptionally high rainfall across multiple regions. In the 24 hours ending Wednesday morning, Dodamarg in Sindhudurg recorded 140mm of rain, followed by Sawantwadi, Rameshwar, and Malvan in the same district receiving 110–130mm. Chinchwad in Pune recorded 100mm.
Fierce winds accompanied the downpour, worsening conditions. Baramati (Pune) and Ambejogai (Beed) experienced gusts up to 78 kmph and 74 kmph, respectively. Dapoli in Ratnagiri was hit by 74 kmph winds, while Mumbai saw relatively moderate speeds at 27 kmph.
Weather System Intensifying
The IMD warned that heavy rainfall is likely to continue, especially in the Konkan region, due to an intensifying weather system over the Arabian Sea. An upper-air cyclonic circulation off the north Karnataka-Goa coast is expected to evolve into a low-pressure area by Thursday and further intensify into a depression by Friday, potentially worsening the situation.
What to Do During Lightning and Heavy Rain
According to an IMD official, as the monsoon intensifies, lightning strikes pose a serious threat. It’s crucial to follow these safety guidelines during thunderstorms, whether you’re indoors or outside.
When Indoors:
- Unplug Devices: Disconnect electronic appliances before storms begin.
- Avoid Plumbing: Do not use running water, as lightning can travel through pipes.
- Stay Away from Windows: Close windows and doors; avoid standing near them.
- Don’t Use Wired Phones: Use mobile phones only if necessary.
- Use Stairs: Avoid elevators during storms.
- Even after the rain stops, the risk of lightning remains. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before going outside.
When Outdoors:
- Seek Shelter: Find a sturdy building immediately. Avoid metal-roofed structures.
- Avoid standing under trees, as lightning often strikes tall objects like trees, poles, or buildings.
- If no shelter is available, crouch low with your feet and knees together. Do not lie flat on the ground.
- If you’re inside a bus, car, or covered vehicle, stay inside — it’s safer.
- Avoid Metal Objects: Do not carry umbrellas or tools with metal parts.
- Monitor Alerts: Follow weather updates on radio, TV, or official apps.
Stay alert, take warnings seriously, and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather. Your safety comes first.
