Chennai, 03 Nov (H.S.): Lightning strikes have claimed 14 lives in Tamil Nadu since the onset of the northeast monsoon, prompting meteorologists to warn residents against venturing outdoors during thunderstorms as the State experiences widespread rainfall.

State Revenue Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan confirmed on October 26 that 14 people had died in lightning-related incidents since the monsoon began. The fatalities have raised concerns over public safety, particularly in rural areas where farmers, agricultural labourers and others working outdoors face greater exposure to lightning.

Meteorological experts have cautioned that lightning activity can be particularly intense during the initial phase of the northeast monsoon, when changing atmospheric conditions favour the development of powerful thunderclouds.

V.R. Durai, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Chennai, explained that cumulonimbus clouds, which develop vertically across several kilometres, are primarily responsible for thunderstorms and lightning.

These massive clouds can extend from 6,000 metres to 16,000 metres or higher into the atmosphere. Electrical charges generated within them produce lightning, posing serious risks to people caught outdoors during thunderstorms.

Experts stressed that lightning strikes could occur even before heavy rainfall begins, making early precautions essential.

The latest figures also highlight the wider threat posed by lightning across the country. According to National Crime Records Bureau data for 2024, lightning strikes claimed 2,825 lives nationwide.

Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of fatalities at 577, while Tamil Nadu reported 66 deaths, placing it 13th among Indian states.

With the northeast monsoon gaining momentum, authorities have intensified precautionary measures in vulnerable districts. Heavy rainfall warnings have also prompted restrictions on tourist movement to several hill destinations.

Meteorologists have advised residents to avoid open fields, isolated trees and exposed locations during thunderstorms and seek shelter inside substantial buildings or enclosed vehicles.

They emphasised that greater public awareness and timely weather alerts could significantly reduce lightning-related fatalities during the monsoon season.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman