Six women workers were killed in Chengam in Tiruvannamalai district when lightning struck a chimney at a rice mill on Friday.
There was heavy downpour accompanied by thunder and lightning in Chengam and adjoining areas.
At least seven workers from Sorpanandal village were working in the mill at Dhalavai Naickanpettai in the town.
When the lightning struck, they were in the building located adjacent to the mill.
The building collapsed in the impact and the workers were caught underneath.
The lone man who survived the crash is in hospital. The bodies of six women were taken to Chengam Government Hospital. Revenue and police officials rushed to the spot.
An excavator was pressed into service to clear the debris and rescue survivors, if any.
Disruption in power supply made the rescue work difficult.
The rice mill belongs Sadiq Basha, a former member of the town panchayat.
Rain in Vellore
Rain lashed some parts of Vellore district on Friday. Tiruvannamalai district received a spell of light rain.
Thunder, strong winds and an overcast sky set the stage for the skies to open up.
Chengam, which is usually dry, has received at least 10 spells of good rain this month alone and places such as Arani and Kannamangalam too received good rain.
Vellore, Arcot, Mel Visharam, Poottuthakku and Rathinagiri also received good amount of rain on Firday evening.
