India, July 17 -- At least 19 people were killed in deadly lightning strikes that hit Bihar over the past 24 hours, an official statement from the chief minister's Office stated on Thursday.

According to PTI, the worst-hit district in Bihar was Nalanda, which reported five fatalities. Vaishali followed with four deaths, while Banka and Patna recorded two each.

Besides, Sheikhpura, Nawada, Jehanabad, Aurangabad, Jamui, and Samastipur districts accounted for one death each.

Meanwhile, chief minister Nitish Kumar extended his condolences to the grieving families and announced an ex gratia amount of Rs.4 lakh for each deceased's next of kin.

The chief minister also urged Bihar residents to remain alert and take all necessary precautions d...