Odisha faced nature’s fury as severe weather wreaked havoc across the state, leaving two dead and 67 injured.
The calamity, which unfolded within 24 hours, caused extensive damage to over 600 houses.
Tragic incidents were reported from Ganjam and Puri districts, where lightning strikes claimed two lives. Rajesh Kumar Goud, a 15-year-old student, was struck while returning home, while Manoj Kumar Nayak, 23, lost his life in a paddy field while managing waterlogging caused by heavy rains.
Mayurbhanj bore the brunt of the destruction, with hailstorms injuring 67 people, seven of whom were critically wounded. Relief operations are underway in the worst-affected Bisoi and Bangirposi blocks, where 350 houses were completely destroyed and 250 partially damaged. Victims are being provided with shelter, food, and other essentials.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for more storms, lightning, and rainfall in the coming days, urging citizens to remain vigilant. Authorities have promised timely compensation and relief to the affected families.
