Surge in Lightning Deaths: India saw a 184% increase in lightning-related deaths across 12 states during March-April 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 (162 deaths in 2025 vs 57 in 2024), making it the deadliest spell since 2022.
April Spike: The first 17 days of April 2025 alone accounted for 142 deaths, a fivefold increase over April 2024.
Unstable Weather: The rise is attributed to unstable atmospheric conditions caused by humid easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal interacting with western disturbances.
Avoidable Deaths: Experts believe many fatalities are preventable with improved preparedness and public awareness.
Lightning Defined: Lightning is a rapid discharge of electrical energy in the atmosphere, occurring within or between clouds, or between a cloud and the ground.
Thunder’s Origin: Thunder is the sound created by the rapid heating and expansion of air around a lightning strike.
NCRB Data: Lightning accounts for a significant portion of natural disaster deaths in India (35.8% in 2022), exceeding those from heavy rains and landslides.
Leading States: Madhya Pradesh and Bihar have the highest number of lightning-related deaths in India (2014-2024).
Pollution’s Role: Air pollution (aerosols, particulate matter) can affect cloud formation and electrical activity in storms, potentially increasing lightning strikes.
Urbanization Impact: Urban heat island effect can create localized heat, contributing to more thunderstorms and lightning.
