Lightning kills five in Chhattisgarh as heavy rains lash state

A sudden thunderstorm swept across Chhattisgarh, producing intense lightning activity that resulted in five fatalities. Local authorities confirmed that the victims were caught outdoors when a bolt struck, and rescue teams were dispatched to the affected areas. The state’s disaster management unit has warned residents to stay indoors and avoid open fields during the ongoing heavy rain. Meteorological services have indicated that the region will continue to experience strong convective activity for the next 24 hours, urging people to follow safety advisories. No further casualties have been reported so far, and investigations into the exact locations of the incidents are underway.