Nine Killed by Lightning Strikes Across Four Districts

At least nine people, including farmers and a fisherman, were killed in separate lightning strikes across Netrokona, Sunamganj, Habiganj, and Noakhali districts on Monday. The fatalities occurred during heavy thundershowers between morning and afternoon as victims were working outdoors.

Netrokona: Three Lives Lost

In Khaliajuri Upazila, three people were killed in separate incidents. Abdul Motalib, 55, a fisherman from Mymensingh, died instantly while fishing in the Dhanu River. Meanwhile, Monayem Khan Palan and Shubh Mandal, both farmers, were struck while tending to their paddy crops. Khaliajuri Police confirmed the bodies have been handed over to their families.

Sunamganj: Tragedy in the Haor

Three farmers died while harvesting paddy in the Sunamganj Sadar and Jamalganj areas. The deceased were identified as Jamir Hossain, 42, Jamir Uddin, 46, and Abu Saleh, 22. Three others were injured in Shantiganj and are currently receiving medical treatment. Dr. Shafiq, a medical officer at Sunamganj Sadar Hospital, confirmed that the three victims were brought dead to the facility.

Habiganj and Noakhali: Further Fatalities

In Habiganj, two people lost their lives. Maksud Ali, 40, was struck while harvesting paddy in Nabiganj, while Abdus Salam, 35, died in Baniachang while moving crops near his home. Nabiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ruhul Amin stated that the local administration would provide financial assistance to the families.

In Noakhali’s Hatia, a 22-year-old tea stall owner and part-time farmer, Mohammad Arafat Hossain, was killed while drying nuts during the rain.

Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and follow safety protocols, especially in open fields and water bodies.