Family in lightning strike: 5 critical

Dhenkanal: Friday, at least five members of a family including three minors rendered critical injuries after they were struck by lightning at Baghamunda village of Parajang Kuturia panchayat in Dhenkanal district,.The victims have been identified as Chiru Kerei (45), Surati Kerei (30), Gauranga Kerei (15), Tarun Kerei (8) and Lakshman Kerei (8).According to sources, the incident occurred last evening when thunderstorm along with lightning hit the village.

Meanwhile, the lightning struck the house and triggered a fire.

On being informed, fire tenders rushed to the spot and rescued the victims. The victims were admitted to Kamakhyanagar Hospital where their health condition has been stated to be critical.Similarly, in Angul, a 40-year old woman, Sukanti Sahoo, died after being struck by lightning at Jamar village under Palahada police limits here Thursday evening.According to sources, the woman had gone to fetch water from the nearby tube well at around 4.30 pm. Meanwhile, the lightning struck her and she sustained critical burn injuries.Soon her family members along with the neighbours rushed the victim to Palahada hospital, but the doctors declared her as brought dead.