Report & Photos: By Suneel Kumar (Tharparkar)
Tharparkar, a region that already battles the challenges of extreme heat and scarcity of water, is increasingly facing the wrath of lightning strikes. With the monsoon season now bringing not only much-needed rain but also deadly thunderstorms, the region has seen a sharp rise in lightning-related casualties. The loss of human lives, livestock, and property has become a recurring tragedy, especially in rural parts of the district. As per the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) – Sindh, the monsoon season of 2024, spanning from June 30 to August 31, witnessed 14 lives claimed by lightning, six others injured, and 257 livestock perishing in these deadly strikes.
These numbers speak volumes about the deep impact lightning is having on the people and communities of Tharparkar. While the region has always been prone to harsh weather, the intensity and frequency of these lightning strikes have been increasing, raising concerns about the underlying causes.
The Science Behind the Strikes: Why Does Lightning Hit Tharparkar?
The increasing number of lightning strikes in Tharparkar can be attributed to several factors, which, when combined, make the region particularly susceptible to these deadly phenomena.
Climate Change and Unpredictable Weather Patterns: The growing unpredictability of weather patterns is one of the primary reasons for the increasing frequency of lightning strikes in Tharparkar. With global climate change leading to erratic shifts in temperatures and atmospheric pressure, the region has seen more intense thunderstorms during the monsoon season. The clash between hot and cool air masses creates the perfect conditions for lightning to strike.
Geography and Landscape: Tharparkar’s unique geographical features also play a significant role in lightning strikes. The area is a vast desert, with minimal vegetation and few natural lightning rods. The extreme temperature difference between the hot, dry land and the cool, moist air during monsoons makes the region a hotspot for thunderstorms. Additionally, the lack of shielding structures, such as tall trees or buildings, makes human settlements and livestock highly vulnerable to these strikes.
Monsoon Storms: The monsoon season in Tharparkar brings much-needed rain, but it also comes with severe thunderstorms that often result in lightning strikes. These storms are caused by the rapid evaporation of water due to intense heat, followed by cooling air masses. The result is a violent clash of warm and cold air, which produces thunderclouds that carry electrical charges, often leading to lightning discharges.
Lack of Safety Infrastructure: Tharparkar, like many rural areas, suffers from inadequate infrastructure and lack of awareness regarding lightning safety. Most homes are built using traditional materials that do not provide adequate protection against lightning strikes. Additionally, there is a lack of early warning systems that could alert people to take cover before a thunderstorm hits. This leaves families and communities at greater risk when these storms occur.
The Impact: Loss of Lives and Livestock
The loss of human lives and livestock in Tharparkar due to lightning strikes is a devastating reality. The lightning strikes during the monsoon of 2024 not only claimed the lives of 14 people but also injured six others. These casualties are not just numbers; they represent families who have lost loved ones, and entire communities that are left grieving.
The death of livestock is another significant blow to the people of Tharparkar, who rely heavily on their animals for food, income, and social status. The loss of 257 livestock in a single monsoon season is a blow to the community’s economy. For many families, these animals are the primary means of livelihood, and such a loss can lead to long-term financial distress.
Moreover, the damage to property—homes, schools, and even healthcare facilities—further exacerbates the suffering of the region’s residents. Rebuilding after a lightning strike is not an easy task, particularly in areas where resources are already scarce.
Well researched