5 electrocuted as lightning strike hit transformer in NW Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were electrocuted and several others injured when lightning strike hit a transformer in Kohat district of Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Thursday, local reports said.

The lightning strike caused surge in voltage of power cables of connected houses, electrocuting the people who were using electric appliances during the period.

The injured people were shifted to a nearby hospital where their condition is said to be critical.

The lightning was followed by heavy rains that had been lashing the area for the last few days.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) heavy rain is expected to continue in Kohat district on Thursday night and Friday.