Despite Warnings, Lightning has Killed 570 in AP During Last 5 Years
Coastal areas in the state usually witness the maximum lightning strikes, owing to their proximity to the sea
Visakhapatnam: Despite a regular campaign by the AP State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) and India Meteorological Department (IMD) about precautionary measures to be taken, lightning has killed 570 people in Andhra Pradesh, most of them in rural areas, during the last five years.
The highest number of 56 deaths have been registered in Vizianagaram, followed by Srikakulam 45, Palnadu 44 and Nellore 41. Lowest deaths of three are from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district.
According to APSDMA, 137 died in Andhra Pradesh during 2018, 80 in 2019, 75 in 2020, 80 in 2021, 52 each in 2022 and 2023, 53 in 2024 and 41 in 2025 till May 20.
A record number of 15 deaths have occurred this May so far. On May 4, lighting claimed seven lives in AP, including three youngsters. These victims had been killed when lightning struck the trees under which they had been taking shelter, or had continued to play in open places.
Coastal areas in the state usually witness the maximum lightning strikes, owing to their proximity to the sea.
Lightning and thunderstorms are the biggest killer in several parts of the country, with farmers, agricultural labour, shepherds, cattle grazers and fishermen being the most vulnerable, sources in IMD, Amaravati, said.
IMD director general Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, during a visit to Visakhapatnam recently, said due to climate change, the intensity and instances of lightning have increased.
Weather agencies regularly issue dos and don'ts to be followed during thunderstorms and lightning. The campaign is through mobile SMS, radio and TV channels.
