Two young men lost their lives after a lightning strike during sudden unseasonal rainfall in Maharashtra’s Jalna district on Monday, police officials confirmed. The incident occurred while the victims were travelling towards a temple near a village. A third companion who was with them at the time of the incident survived but sustained injuries. Authorities stated that the unexpected weather conditions, marked by heavy rain and lightning, created a dangerous situation for those caught outdoors. The incident highlights the risks associated with taking shelter in open areas during thunderstorms, especially under trees, which can attract lightning strikes and prove fatal.
The deceased have been identified as Govind Prahlad Lahane, aged 21, and Aditya Dagdu Bedre, aged 20. According to police sources, the incident took place near Mahakala village in Ambad tehsil. The trio was reportedly heading to Apegaon village to offer prayers at the Vigneshwar Mahadev Temple. During their journey, they were caught in sudden rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning. In an attempt to protect themselves from the rain, they took shelter beneath a tree. Unfortunately, the tree was struck by a powerful lightning bolt, leading to the immediate deaths of Lahane and Bedre at the spot.
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The third man who was accompanying them suffered serious injuries in the lightning strike. Emergency responders quickly shifted him to a hospital in Ambad, where he is currently receiving treatment. Officials have not yet disclosed his identity but confirmed that his condition is being closely monitored by medical staff. Police have registered the case and initiated further procedures. Local residents expressed shock over the incident, noting that such sudden weather changes have become more frequent in recent times. Authorities reiterated the importance of avoiding exposed locations and unsafe shelters during lightning and thunderstorms to prevent similar tragedies.
Meanwhile, several parts of the Jalna district experienced widespread unseasonal rainfall on the same day. Regions including Bhokardan, Jalna, Ambad and Jafrabad tehsils received showers, while strong winds and stormy conditions were reported in areas like Ramnagar and Ner. The unexpected weather disrupted normal activities and raised concerns among residents and farmers. Officials noted that such erratic climatic patterns are becoming increasingly common, particularly during transitional seasons. The sudden showers were accompanied by thunder and lightning, creating hazardous conditions across multiple locations in the district.
The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Jalna district for March 31, warning residents about the likelihood of thunderstorms, lightning and adverse weather conditions. In response, authorities have advised farmers to take precautionary measures to protect harvested crops from potential damage caused by rain and strong winds. Sudden weather fluctuations can adversely affect agricultural produce, especially crops that are ready for storage or transport. Farmers have been urged to remain vigilant and stay updated with official weather advisories to minimise losses during this unpredictable weather phase.
Earlier forecasts from the weather department had already indicated a fresh spell of cloudy conditions and thunderstorms across parts of Maharashtra beginning March 30. Regions such as Khandesh, Marathwada, West Vidarbha and parts of central Maharashtra’s ghat areas were expected to experience gusty winds, rainfall and even hail in isolated places. Other parts of Vidarbha were also likely to witness changing weather patterns. While the intensity of rainfall was expected to slightly decrease on March 31, unstable atmospheric conditions and scattered thunderstorms were predicted to persist in several affected regions.
Weather officials further stated that rainfall activity is likely to intensify again between April 1 and April 4. During this period, parts of central Maharashtra, Khandesh, Marathwada and Vidarbha may witness cloudy skies, afternoon thunderstorms and the possibility of hailstorms. These conditions could continue to impact daily life as well as agricultural operations in the region. Authorities have emphasised the need for preparedness and caution, particularly for those working outdoors. Residents are advised to avoid open spaces during lightning activity and follow safety guidelines issued by local प्रशासन to reduce the risk of harm.