India has witnessed a record number of deaths caused by lightning in 2022, with 907 people killed by lightning strikes between January and November, making it a leading cause of death from natural disasters in the country. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory listing ways to safeguard oneself from lightning and thunderstorms. These measures include keeping an eye out for darkening skies and increased wind, following weather forecasts and local media for updates and warnings, and getting indoors when a thunderstorm seems imminent. The safest location during a thunderstorm is usually a large enclosed structure that has both plumbing and electrical wiring.
According to an article in a recent report by the Ministry of Earth Science, lightning strikes have become a leading cause of death from natural disasters in India, with a record number of 907 deaths being reported between January and November 2022. The number of fatalities due to lightning strikes has been on the rise in recent years, with the monsoon season expected to bring more such incidents in the coming months.
In light of this, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory listing ways to safeguard oneself from lightning and thunderstorms. Here are some tips to keep oneself safe during a thunderstorm:
1. Stay indoors: Keep an eye out for darkening skies and increased wind. Hair standing up on the back of your neck could indicate that lightning is imminent. Follow weather forecasts and local media for updates and warnings. Once the arrival of a thunderstorm seems imminent, get indoors and avoid travel.
2. Close windows and doors: Close all windows and doors and unplug any electrical appliances not in use. This will help to disconnect them from the main power supply, which could conduct a power spike during a lightning storm.
3. Remove debris: Remove any tree timber or other debris that could cause a flying mishap, and secure any objects outside your home such as furniture, bins, and so on.
4. Seek shelter in an enclosed structure: The safest location during a thunderstorm is usually a large enclosed structure that has both plumbing and electrical wiring. Apart from your private residence, these could also be shopping malls, office buildings, schools, etc. When lightning strikes the building, the plumbing and wiring can conduct the electricity more efficiently than a human body.
5. Seek shelter in an enclosed metal vehicle: If you can’t spot any buildings closeby, then an enclosed metal vehicle such as an automobile, van, or school bus could make for a decent alternative.
In case of lightning strikes, it is important to stay away from running water because lightning can travel along metal pipes. Keep away from doors, windows, fireplaces, stoves, bathtubs, or any other electrical conductors, and avoid using corded phones and other electrical equipment that can conduct electricity.
The IMD also advises people to stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder is heard, as lightning can still strike even if it is not raining. It is important to take these precautions seriously, as lightning strikes can be fatal and cause serious injuries.
Last but not least, it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions during a thunderstorm to keep oneself safe from lightning strikes. By following these simple tips, one can significantly reduce the risk of being struck by lightning and stay safe during a thunderstorm.
