The western region of India, particularly Gujarat state, has been struck by a deadly combination of lightning, intense rain, and hailstorms, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 24 lives. The unexpected and severe weather conditions have not only claimed human lives but have also wreaked havoc on houses and livestock. While Gujarat is not known for experiencing such storms during winter, meteorologists warn that rising global temperatures are responsible for the surge in extreme weather events.
The alarming increase in lightning strikes and flash floods in India is a dire consequence of anthropogenic climate change, with rising land and sea surface temperatures creating an ideal environment for thunderstorms to thrive. As the air above warms and gains more energy, thunderstorms are fueled, giving birth to lightning strikes that claim thousands of lives in India each year. The recent hailstorms and rain are expected to persist in western India, exacerbating the already grim situation.
Out of the 24 fatalities reported, a significant number can be attributed directly to lightning strikes. The Gujarat state government data, quoted by Reuters news agency, reveals that the affected areas received a staggering 144mm (5.7 inches) of rain in just 24 hours. These adverse weather conditions resulted from the convergence of three weather systems – easterly winds from the Arabian Sea, the Western Disturbance over the Western Himalayas, and the Cyclonic Circulation over South Gujarat, as explained by Manorama Mohanty, the head of the Indian Meteorological Department in Ahmedabad, during an interview with BBC Gujarati.
Reacting to the heartbreaking loss of lives, India’s Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his deep grief and assured the affected communities of comprehensive relief efforts.
Tragedies such as the death of 42-year-old farmer Yogesh Patel serve as a painful reminder of the devastating power of lightning. While seeking shelter under a tree during heavy rain, Mr. Patel was fatally struck by lightning, leaving behind his grieving wife and three children. The destructive blast from the lightning even caused his mobile phone, stored in his left shirt pocket, to explode, tragically ending his life.
Startling statistics reveal the alarming toll lightning takes on lives in India. Official data spanning from 1967 to 2019 shows that lightning strikes claimed the lives of over 100,000 individuals, accounting for more than a third of all fatalities caused by natural hazards during this period. However, despite the rising number of lightning strikes in the country, reported fatalities have been declining in recent years due to improved lightning risk management strategies implemented by authorities, including enhanced forecasting and early warning systems.
A study conducted by the non-profit Climate Resilient Observing Systems Promotion Council sheds light on the gravity of the situation. Between April 2020 and March 2021, India witnessed a staggering 18 million lightning strikes, marking a 34% increase compared to the previous year. These numbers underscore the urgent need for continued efforts to bolster resilience and minimize the devastating consequences of lightning strikes.
The recent episode of lightning and hailstorms in western India serves as a somber wake-up call for both the government and citizens to prioritize climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, it is crucial to invest in early warning systems, infrastructure resilience, and public education regarding lightning safety. By fostering a culture of preparedness and understanding, we can work towards minimizing the loss of lives and property caused by lightning strikes.
As the people of western Gujarat mourn the tragic loss of their loved ones, it is imperative that society comes together, supporting the affected communities in their healing process and contributing to long-term resilience endeavors. Let us remember the lives lost to lightning strikes in India and strive to create a safer future for all.
