Bangladesh witnesses alarming surge in lightning-related fatalities attributed to climate change

Mamun, a young man in Bangladesh, experienced a devastating tragedy on what was supposed to be his wedding day. Sixteen of his family members were killed by lightning as they were on their way to join him for the ceremony. The storm forced them to seek shelter under a tin shed on the riverbank, where they were struck. Bangladesh suffers from frequent extreme weather and heavy storms, leading to an average of 300 lightning-related deaths each year, according to the UN. In comparison, the United States, with almost double the population, experiences fewer than 20 lightning fatalities annually. Mamun recalls the chaos and confusion he faced when he rushed to his family after hearing the thunder. He lost his father, grandparents, cousins, uncles, and aunts in the tragedy. While his mother survived, Mamun was devastated by the loss of his loved ones. The funerals of his relatives were held that evening, and the wedding feast meant to celebrate his marriage was instead distributed to the homeless. Mamun got married, but he now avoids celebrating his wedding anniversary as it brings back painful memories. The number of lightning-related deaths in Bangladesh has been steadily increasing, partly due to climate change and increased storminess, according to experts. Lightning strikes have been added to the official list of natural disasters in the country, which include floods, cyclones, earthquakes, and droughts. Farmers, who work in the fields during the rainy monsoon months, are the most vulnerable to lightning strikes. Efforts are being made to reduce the number of deaths, including the planting of tall trees in rural areas, the construction of lightning sheds, and the implementation of early warning systems. However, poor connectivity and lack of mobile usage in vulnerable areas pose challenges to these initiatives. Many people in Bangladesh are also unaware of the dangers of lightning, as the likelihood of being struck by lightning is not on their radar. Farmers like Ripon Hossen, who witnessed his friend Abdullah's death from a lightning strike, continue to live in fear and trauma. Lightning remains a growing concern not only in Bangladesh but also in neighboring countries like India.