Lightning is an awe-inspiring, natural but fascinating phenomenon since times immemorial. But in recent times, it has shown sharp increase in its frequency, severity, intensity and dimensions in many parts of the world, especially in tropical and developing countries; and so the fatalities. The root cause of this alarming trend is none other than global warming and climate change. Studies from various parts of the world have proved that with each 1° Celsius rise in temperature, there is corresponding rise of up to 12% in moisture lightning (Hump et al., 2014).
Lightning, as we know is the atmospheric discharge of electricity. While convective thunderstorms are the main lightning source in many parts of the world, they can also be generated in other types of storms such as sand storms, hail storms and snowstorms. Heat, moisture and instability are the basic tenets for development of thunderstorms and lightning. It is an instant surge of extremely high electric current, temperature, sound and energy which cumulatively cause lethal impact.
The Impact of Lightning Strikes
- Global Fatalities: Estimated 2,000-24,000 deaths and 240,000 injuries annually, with many cases going unreported in rural areas.
- Vulnerable Populations: Rural communities, agricultural workers, children, and the elderly are disproportionately affected due to limited access to emergency services and lack of awareness.
India’s Proactive Approach
India is leading the way in building lightning resilience through a two-pronged strategy:
- Climate Change Adaptation: Developing climate-resilient infrastructure and strengthening disaster preparedness.
- Lightning Mitigation: Implementing early warning systems, lightning-safe shelters, and community awareness programs.
Key Initiatives:
- India’s Climate Change adaptation measures include developing climate resilient infrastructures and adaptation to renewable energy. Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and International Solar Alliance (ISA) are India led global initiatives who have yielded rich dividends in curbing the heat and carbon emissions.
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Programme: A comprehensive approach to lightning risk management, including research and development, and establishment of Lightning Hazard Management Units.
- Lightning Resilient India Campaign: A collaborative effort focusing on awareness, education, and early warning systems.
- Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Initiatives like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and International Solar Alliance (ISA) promote sustainable development.
Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies
- Early Warning Systems: Crucial for saving lives and reducing damage.
- Public Awareness: Educating communities on lightning safety and mitigation measures.
- Climate Action: Global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to curb global warming.
Conclusion
The increasing threat of lightning strikes serves as a stark reminder of climate change’s devastating impact. India’s proactive approach offers a model for other nations to follow, emphasizing the need for collaborative action to build a more resilient and climate-aware world.
Reference
Hump, D. et al. (2014) Projected increase in lightning by University of California study. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1259100
Author’s Short Bio
Prof. Rt. Col. Sanjay Srivastava is Professor of Practice at TERI School of Advanced Studies; Chairman of the Climate Resilient Observing Systems Promotion Council (CROPC), amongst others. He is an ADN Advisory Board Member, and Member of the ADN Network on Loss and Damage.