At least five people died due to lightning during a sudden storm on Saturday in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts. The region has been experiencing extreme heat for several days, leaving residents weary and desperate for relief through rains.

The rains did ease the heat intensity but unfortunately also left some casualties.

Around noon, a storm swept across the Sylhet district, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. The adverse weather resulted in lightning strikes in Jaintiapur and Kanaighat upazilas, claiming the lives of four people. One more was killed in Bishwambarpur upazila of Sunamganj.

In Jaintiapur, two victims were identified as Nahid Ahmed, 13, and Abdul Mannan Moni, 45. Nahid was reportedly standing near his home when a lightning hit him, leading to his immediate death. Abdul Mannan, who was working in a nearby field, also succumbed to a  lightning strike.

Jaintiapur Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Tazul Islam confirmed the incidents.

In Kanaighat, Kala Mia, 35, and Nur Uddin, 58, were victims of the same storm. Kala Mia died at 2pn while catching fish in a watery area near his home while Nur Uddin died an hour later as he was working in his field.

Kanaighat Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Nasrin confirmed the matter.

In Sunamganj's Bishwambarpur upazila, Deen Islam, 45, died from sudden lightening as he went outdoors to protect the firewood he had laid outside to dry by placing them out of the rain's reach.

Bishwambarpur Police Station OC Md Kausar Alam confirmed the fatal incident.