Panic over lightning strikes Ernakulam as northeast monsoon sets in

Panic has gripped Ernakulam as the northeast monsoon brings with it a surge in lightning strikes. Experts have identified Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts, along with the hilly areas of Ernakulam, as particularly vulnerable regions for post-monsoon lightning. A series of lightning strikes triggered widespread damage, leaving ten houses damaged in Palayikkunnu, injuring a girl and even collapsing land in Vengola.

Karumalloor's mosque minaret was also damaged. The intensity of these lightning strikes highlights the urgent need for improved precautionary measures at a local level, according to Basil Kuriakose, a local ward member. Climate experts warn that while isolated lightning strikes have occurred in the area before, the current level warrants strengthening lightning protection infrastructure.

S. Abhilash, Director of the Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research at Cochin University of Science and Technology, noted the increasing occurrence and intensity of lightning over the years, making prediction and mitigation a challenging task. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has responded by planning additional awareness drives to ensure public safety during this period of heightened risk.

These drives aim to educate, particularly outdoor workers, on how to stay safe amid the increasing challenges posed by climate change. So far this year, the district has not recorded any fatalities due to lightning.