lightning
© 123RF
A woman farm labourer died of a lightning strike in Prathipadu mandal in Guntur district. Five others, who suffered serious burns, are critical. They were among 11 agriculture labourers working in a mirchi field at Pathampattukunta village when the thunderbolt struck.

The workers rushed to take shelter under a tree when it started pouring. After the rain stopped, the workers wanted to resume work in the field when they were struck by the lightning.

Kuchipudi Kanthamma (45) died on the spot. Six others collapsed. Three among them -- Panthangi Bhagyam, Katikala Marthamma ad Burri Rajamma -- were rushed to the Prathipadu PHC. Later, two others -- M Sumalatha and Janga Sandhya -- also fell seriously ill. All the five women were taken to the Government General Hospital in Guntur.