Lightning is a very rapid — and massive — discharge of electricity in the atmosphere, some of which is directed towards the Earth’s surface. (Photo: File) At least 30 people were killed in separate incidents of lightning in various parts of the country in the past 24 hours. While Rajasthan reported 18 deaths , Uttar Pradesh recorded 12. Causalities have also been reported from Madhya Pradesh. Earlier in June, 20 persons were killed in lightning strikes in three districts of south Bengal. Deaths due to lightning have become frequent in the country. In July last year, 40 people were killed by lightning in Bihar in two separate incidents. So, why — and how frequently — does lightning kill in India? How common are deaths by lightning? More common than is sometimes realised in the urban areas. As a whole, India sees 2,000-2,500 lightning deaths every year on average. Lightning is the biggest contributor to accidental deaths due to natural causes. A few years ago, over 300 people wer