Thunderstorms pose a serious threat to life in Bangladesh, as there are now 14 people dead from lightning strikes in this country in the last 24 hours. A majority of those dead have been farmers and people working outside who were outside at the time of the change in the weather.
In response to the thunderstorms, authorities have raised their alert level for all of Dhaka and its Surrounding Districts, advising caution for people in their vicinity in light of more thunderstorms today.
Farming Fields Have the Highest Risk
The storms that we see now are actually called “Kalbaishakhi” storms, which are violent pre-monsoon storm systems characterised by very strong winds, heavy rains and extreme amounts of lightning.
When a person is in an open area, such as a farm or sports field, they can become the tallest object in the area. Lightning always strikes the highest object. As a result, people in open areas are at a very high risk of being struck by lightning. Many of the people who have died as a result of the recent storms died on very flat agricultural land due to being in an area with no or extremely little shelter.
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The Dangers of Rooftops
Many people believe that rooftops are safe areas to be during a rainstorm. However, when there is a thunderstorm happening, they are actually the most hazardous place to be during a thunderstorm.
Flat, non-graded rooftops, especially those constructed out of a metal frame with water tanks attached to them, become elevated and exposed platforms. Being in an elevated position as well as being exposed to the elements increases the chances of being struck directly by lightning and/or receiving an indirect electrical discharge.
According to the forecast today, there will be many lightning strikes in Dhaka; staying off of rooftops is highly advised.
What should you do right now?
In order to minimise your risk during today’s storm conditions:
- Stay inside a permanently constructed concrete building that has been properly grounded.
- Avoid being in an open space (field, park, road, etc.) during a thunderstorm.
- Avoid being close to windows, metal frames and/or electrical equipment.
- Avoid using wired products when lightning is producing frequent discharges in your area.
If you are caught outside:
- Find the nearest building/covered structure and take shelter immediately from the storm.
- Do not take shelter under a tree or under a temporary shed.
- Stay as far away from all metal objects (including umbrellas, tools or poles, etc.).
Safety Over Routine
Although many people feel that their job and day-to-day routines come first, stepping outside during any active thunderstorms today can put someone’s life in jeopardy. The recent deaths due to lightning highlight just how dangerous and unpredictable lightning can be. The best and most straightforward option for everyone is to remain indoors until conditions get better and monitor what’s happening.
Summary
Bangladesh authorities are advising against remaining in open areas or on rooftops because there have been 14 lightning fatalities reported in the past 24 hours, as well as severe thunderstorms affecting Dhaka. Everyone who lives in the area should stay inside and avoid being exposed during these thunderstorms that will have a high amount of lightning today.
