Nuapada: In an unfortunate incident, three youths were left battling for lives after being struck by lightning Tuesday following the Nor’wester rain at Bhajipala village under Dumerpani gram panchayat, just 7km away from Sadar police station in the district.
The injured have been identified as Bhupat Sabar (20), Batu Sabar (18) and Khuman Sabar (25) of the same family.
The three have been placed under treatment at Nuapada district headquarters hospital (DHH) where their condition is stated to be critical.
Sources said the incident occurred while the three were harvesting Rabi crops in a farmland. Heavy rainfall lashed accompanied by gusty surface wind hit the village. Meanwhile, lightning struck the three while they were taking shelter under a tree to avoid getting drenched.
On the other hand, the unseasonal rain has uprooted many trees and electric poles, wreaking havoc in the area.