Bhopal, Sept 30 (NationPress) In a shocking event during Navratri festivities, eight individuals - among them women and a young girl - suffered serious injuries after being hit by lightning in Lalpur village, located in the Baraundha police station area of Satna district, Madhya Pradesh.

The victims were reportedly performing religious rituals when the lightning struck, leading to widespread panic and chaos in the vicinity.

According to a statement made to IANS by Premlal Kurve, the additional superintendent of police (Rural), the group had assembled in an open area near a temple for Navratri puja when the unexpected lightning bolt struck. The injured have been taken to Majhgawan Hospital for treatment.

Among those hurt, one woman is reported to be in critical condition and has been transferred to the district hospital for more advanced care; however, police officials have stated that they could not confirm if any victim was in serious danger. The others, including the child, are currently under medical supervision at a nearby community health center.

Eyewitnesses recounted the incident as harrowing, characterized by a loud thunderclap followed by cries and confusion. Villagers quickly rushed to assist the injured and notified emergency services.

Police and medical teams arrived swiftly to coordinate the rescue and treatment efforts. This incident has raised alarms regarding the safety of outdoor gatherings amid unpredictable weather conditions.

Authorities have advised citizens to stay indoors during thunderstorms and heed weather advisories, particularly during the ongoing Navratri celebrations, when large crowds often gather for religious ceremonies. This lightning strike occurs within a broader context of extreme weather patterns across central India.

Madhya Pradesh has been facing unstable atmospheric conditions due to moisture-laden easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for isolated thunderstorms and lightning activity in various districts, including Satna, Rewa, Sidhi, and Shahdol.

On Tuesday, parts of Madhya Pradesh experienced scattered rainfall along with gusty winds and lightning. Daytime temperatures were around 32–34°C, accompanied by high humidity levels, which contributed to atmospheric instability.

The IMD has predicted similar conditions for the next 48 hours, urging caution for outdoor activities.

In recent years, injuries and fatalities related to lightning strikes have escalated across India, with experts linking this increase to climate change-related weather volatility and a general lack of public awareness. Local officials have pledged to strengthen safety protocols during the remaining days of Navratri to avert further incidents.