Turkey sympathizes with India over lightning strikes

Turkey on Friday extended condolences to India over the loss of lives caused by a recent rash of lightning strikes.

"We are saddened to receive the news that over 100 people have lost their lives as a result of lightning strikes in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in India," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"We extend our sincere condolences to the relatives of those who lost their lives as well as to the government and the people of India," it added.

During heavy monsoon rains, lightning strikes are quite common in various parts of India. The monsoon season runs from June to September.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), more than 2,500 people die due to lightning strikes in India every year.