TDS Desk:

Lightning strikes continue to pose a growing threat in Bangladesh, claiming nearly 350 lives every year, with the northeastern districts of Sunamganj, Netrokona and Sylhet identified as the most vulnerable zones.

Khan Mohammad Golam Rabbani, a weather expert from the intergovernmental organisation Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES), shared the data at a seminar held on Saturday at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre to mark International Lightning Safety Day.

“On average, 3.36 million lightning strikes occur in Bangladesh annually, causing around 350 fatalities,” he said.

He named Sunamganj, Netrokona and Sylhet as the districts most at risk.

“The risk peaks in April and May. Recently, lightning incidents have increased by 10 per cent, with further rises expected,” Rabbani added.

The seminar was jointly organised by RIMES and the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).

At the same event, Disaster Management Secretray Mostafizur Rahman said: “Work is under way to transform the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) into a full-fledged department.

“It won’t just focus on cyclones — it will serve all forms of disaster preparedness. Its role will include everything from raising awareness across the country to engaging local volunteers.

“These volunteers will receive training not just on cyclones but across all disaster types,” he added.

THE SEMINAR ALSO SHARED KEY SAFETY TIPS DURING LIGHTNING STRIKES:

Stay indoors if dark clouds appear or thunder is heard

If working outdoors without access to shelter, crouch low with limbs tucked in. Do not lie flat on the ground

If in water, stay under the boat canopy

Without a canopy, reduce contact with the boat floor as much as possible Stop fishing, Avoid water bodies

Do not take shelter under trees or on elevated ground

Stay away from torn power lines

PLACES DEEMED UNSAFE DURING LIGHTNING STRIKES INCLUDE:

Tents set up in open areas, Shelters with open roofs

Metal structures such as uncovered passenger sheds

Umbrellas are also unsafe

The seminar recommended staying indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap is heard.