Bangladesh Declares Disaster amid Surge in Lightning Deaths

Lightning strikes kill more than 260 people in Bangladesh

At least 261 people have been killed by lightning strikes in Bangladesh, so far this year, putting the disaster-prone country on track to top last year’s 265 fatalities.

Most lightning deaths in the region occur during the warm months in spring, summer and early fall.

India

Meanwhile, at least 93 people were killed by lightning storms across India in the past 2 days, and dozens more have been injured.

The government has declared that it will give 400,000 rupees ($5,925) to each of the lightning victims’ families. Injured farmers may also receive some compensation.

In 2014, a record 2,500 people were killed in the country, according to the official figures.