Lightning strikes kill 7 in India's Chhattisgarh

NEW DELHI, September 8 — At least seven people were killed and three others injured Sunday due to a lightning strike in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, police said.

The incident took place Sunday evening in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, about 107 km northeast of Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning strikes lashed several parts of the state.

A police official said the victims were working in the field and had taken shelter under a tree near a pond following the rains.

The injured were immediately rushed to the hospital.

Every year, with the onset of monsoon season, hundreds die in lightning incidents in India.