Lightning Deaths Surge in India
The year 2025 has seen a sharp increase in lightning-related deaths in India. Between April and July alone, over 1,600 people died due to lightning and rain-related incidents. This rise is linked to changing climate patterns and expanding lightning zones across the country. Lightning now poses a growing threat not only in rural but also urban areas.
Rising Fatalities and Historical Data
Lightning kills more people annually in India than any other extreme weather event. From 1967 to 2020, over 101,000 deaths were recorded due to lightning. Nearly half of all weather-related deaths between 2002 and 2024 were caused by lightning. The World Meteorological Organisation reported about 1,300 deaths in 2024 alone. The eastern states bear the brunt, especially during the monsoon sowing season.
Climate Change and Expanding Lightning Zones
Climate change is intensifying conditions favourable for lightning. Rising temperatures increase humidity by 7% per degree Celsius, creating more thunderstorms. Scientific studies estimate a 10-12% increase in lightning activity per degree of warming. Regions previously less affected, including central, northern, and coastal India, now experience more strikes. Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have emerged as new hotspots, overtaking traditional lightning-prone areas.
Urban Impact and Emerging Risks
Lightning strikes are increasingly frequent in urban centres. Cities face risks from the urban heat island effect, which raises temperatures and promotes thunderstorm formation. Air pollution and rapid urbanisation worsen storm intensity and flooding. Delhi has witnessed severe lightning events causing structural damage and flight disruptions. Urban electromagnetic infrastructure may also increase lightning vulnerability.
Forecasting Advances and Implementation Challenges
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has improved lightning forecasts to 86% accuracy. Alerts now include five-day potential area warnings and real-time updates every three hours. However, lightning’s sudden nature makes evacuation difficult. Delays in alert dissemination reduce effectiveness. States like Odisha have declared lightning a disaster, but national recognition is pending. The government has launched mitigation projects in 50 districts across 10 states.
Mitigation Efforts
Efforts include planting protective palm trees, installing smart poles with warning systems, and mapping high-risk zones. Mobile apps and WhatsApp groups provide real-time alerts to local safety coordinators. Outreach campaigns focus on behavioural change and preparedness. Experts stress the need for last-mile connectivity to ensure warnings reach vulnerable populations. The SthanKala-Patra approach aims to link scientific forecasts with timely community action.
| Related | |
|---|---|
