Brac workshop calls for lightning risk reduction
Experts at a national workshop have called for stronger preparedness, early action and coordinated response to reduce lightning-related deaths in Bangladesh.
Brac, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, organised the workshop titled "Lightning Preparedness and Risk Reduction in Bangladesh" at Brac Centre in Dhaka on Monday (4 May).
The workshop reviewed ongoing initiatives to mitigate lightning risks, identified gaps and challenges, and discussed relevant international practices.
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After the government recognised lightning as a national disaster in 2016, it has emerged as one of the country's deadliest natural hazards, causing more deaths each year than cyclones and floods, speakers said.
Between 2015 and 2024, a total of 3,485 people died from lightning strikes in Bangladesh.
Disaster Management and Relief Ministry Joint Secretary Abu Daud Md Gulam Mustafa attended the event as the chief guest.
The discussion was chaired by Bangladesh Meteorological Department Director (Current Charge) Md Momenul Islam. Brac Disaster Risk Management Programme Director Dr Md Liakath Ali was also present.
Speaking at the event, Abu Daud said farmers, children and women are among those most at risk of lightning-related deaths due to the country's high population density.
He stressed the need to install shelters equipped with lightning arresters in high-risk areas, strengthen precautionary measures and raise public awareness about early warning systems.
Md Momenul Islam said 71 people died from lightning strikes between 26 April and 2 May this year despite warnings being issued three days in advance.
He said early warning becomes effective only when it leads to timely action and proper implementation, which requires collaboration at all levels.
Dr Liakath said forecast information must be time-efficient and disseminated effectively across the country, ideally several hours in advance, through channels that can reach a wide audience.
He said the delivery mechanism remains a key challenge and requires coordinated efforts among all stakeholders to reduce thunderstorm-related deaths.
Bangladesh Meteorological Department Storm Warning Centre Meteorologist Dr Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallik presented the keynote paper on lightning vulnerability, risks, forecasting and early warning in Bangladesh.
Representatives from the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System, UNDP, Plan International and Brac also shared their insights and experiences on lightning preparedness and risk reduction.
Brac Disaster Risk Management Programme Head Khondoker Golam Tawhid delivered the opening remarks.
The event also included a panel discussion where experts highlighted challenges in predicting lightning and delivering early warnings to remote areas, while identifying priority actions to address needs on the ground.
