SINGAPORE - An SMRT train on the North-South Line was struck by lightning in a sudden thunderstorm on Wednesday (May 11) afternoon.

The incident happened around 4pm between Yishun and Yio Chu Kang stations, crippling the train.

"At 3.46pm today, it was suspected that lightning struck a location between Yio Chu Kang and Khatib Station along the North-South Line," said Mr Patrick Nathan, SMRT's vice-president of corporate information and communications.

"This may have caused a train fault, affecting commuters travelling towards Yio Chu Kang Station."

The Straits Times understands the driver reported the incident, adding that he smelled something burning.

The affected train had to be pushed out by another train, affecting service for about 50 minutes.

Commuters on an affected train alighted at Yio Chu Kang station and the train was withdrawn from service, SMRT said.

"As a precaution, our engineers also tested the trackside equipment to ensure that it is safe for trains to move over the affected area," Mr Nathan said.

Trains being struck by lightning is not common, but can happen during severe thunderstorms. No one was hurt in the incident.

The train service from Yishun to Yio Chu Kang MRT stations resumed around 4.35pm, SMRT said.

SMRT added that its trains are designed to "safely protect commuters in severe weather conditions".

The disruption affected three stations on the North-South Line - Yishun, Khatib and Yio Chu Kang. Free regular bus services were provided from Yishun to Yio Chu Kang, SMRT said.