In an alarming weather phenomenon, Assam experienced a staggering 7,545 lightning strikes in just the first two days of September 2024. Across the Northeast, a total of 22,832 lightning events were recorded, raising concerns about the region’s escalating weather instability.
Assam’s vulnerability to lightning strikes has taken a deadly toll, with 45 people losing their lives to these severe weather events so far in 2024. The most recent fatality occurred in the Morigaon district, emphasizing the grave impact of the intensifying lightning activity. The rise in lightning strikes has heightened risks for both life and property throughout the state.
Guwahati, Assam’s largest city, recorded its highest rainfall of the year on September 1, with 98.4 mm, amid continuous thunderstorms. The skies have been dominated by dark clouds, and erratic weather patterns have placed the state on high alert.
NESAC Reports Lightning Frequency Surge
The North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC) in Meghalaya revealed that on September 1 alone, 2,521 lightning strikes occurred in the Northeast, with Assam accounting for 1,398 of them. A significant portion of these were cloud-to-ground (CG) strikes, which pose the greatest threat to life and infrastructure.
The following day, lightning activity surged dramatically, with Assam recording 6,147 lightning events, including 2,293 CG strikes. Such strikes are particularly dangerous as they reach the ground, often causing fatalities.
Record Lightning Activity on September 2
On September 2, the region witnessed 20,311 lightning events, with Assam bearing the brunt of the activity. The continuous barrage of CG strikes created an urgent need for precautionary measures across the state.
These statistics were compiled by NESAC and based on data from the Lightning Location Network of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. However, NESAC cautions that the actual number of strikes may be higher, as the network’s detection range is limited.
As lightning continues to disrupt daily life in Assam, state authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. Safety guidelines have been issued, advising residents to avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms and to install surge protectors to prevent electrical damage.
Climate Change and Lightning Surge Correlation
Experts suggest that climate change is a driving factor behind the surge in lightning activity. Increasing humidity, temperature fluctuations, and altered weather patterns are leading to more frequent and intense lightning storms. Assam’s current crisis serves as a stark reminder of the growing influence of global climate shifts on local weather events.
Efforts are underway to enhance monitoring systems and expand the Lightning Location Network to improve detection and early warning capabilities. As Assam endures this phase of extreme weather, its residents are hopeful for clear skies and safer days ahead
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