It needs mentioning that deaths from lightning strikes in Bangladesh have increased alarmingly in recent years. As reported by this daily on Saturday, at least 26 people were killed in lightning strikes in the last 18 days while around 70 others were injured.
Deaths from lightning strikes have been on the rise mainly due to lack of awareness, whereas many deaths could be avoided if the meteorological department effectively broadcast early warnings on looming thunderbolts. Hence, the Met office should effectively broadcast early warnings on thunderbolts, especially in the season of Nor’westers.
Awareness building at individual and community levels
has become pertinent in order to bring down the
number of deaths and injuries from lightning
On an average, about 300 to 400 people die in lightning strikes every year. Reportedly, more than 1,600 people were killed in lightning incidents in the country over the past seven years. It is apprehended that the exact number of casualties from lightning could be much higher as many cases go unreported. Meteorological department claimed that thunderbolt warnings are issued regularly, but people are not aware of those alerts.
Awareness building at individual and community levels has become pertinent in order to bring down the number of deaths and injuries from lightning. In this regard, community radio can play a crucial role. Given the risk or dangers of thunderstorms that are supposed to loom large in the coming monsoon, we suggest people to stay away from tall trees, electric poles and towers, and take shelter under a concrete ceiling during thunderbolts and follow the basic anti-lighting strikes rules. Last but not least, as a long-term initiative, tree plantation can help develop a natural canopy against storms and thunderbolts.
