Dhaka, May 16 (V7N) – The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued a short-term thunderstorm alert for nine districts, warning of rain or thunderstorms with gusty or squally winds ranging between 45 to 60 kilometers per hour or more.

The warning, issued at 9:50 AM Friday, remains valid until 1:00 PM, and includes the following districts: Kurigram, Rangpur, Gaibandha, Jamalpur, Habiganj, Moulvibazar, Narayanganj, Narsingdi, and Sylhet.

The Met Office also reminded that Bangladesh typically experiences the highest frequency of lightning strikes during March to May and October to November.

According to a study by Finnish lightning research firm Vaisala, 70% of lightning-related deaths in Bangladesh occur among farmers or people working in open fields, followed by 14% on the way home, and 13% while bathing or fishing.

Safety Guidelines During Lightning and Thunderstorms:

  1. Avoid open areas or high ground – Seek shelter in a solid building; stay away from tall trees or electrical poles.

  2. Do not take shelter under trees or passenger sheds – These are common lightning targets.

  3. Avoid touching metal – Refrain from handling water taps, stair railings, pipes, or using landline phones.

  4. Stay away from electrical appliances – Even when turned off, appliances like TVs or refrigerators should not be touched. Disconnect power if lightning risk is high.

  5. In vehicles – Try to return home. If stuck during heavy lightning, keep the car under covered structures and avoid touching metal parts.

  6. Beware of water accumulation – Rainwater on roads may be electrified by fallen power lines or lightning strikes.

  7. Avoid wet leather shoes or going barefoot – Use rubber-soled footwear, preferably full-coverage rubber boots.

  8. Exercise caution when helping others – Do not touch an electrocuted person with bare hands; seek immediate medical help.

The Meteorological Department urges all citizens, especially those in vulnerable occupations or traveling during this period, to remain alert and take all necessary precautions.

END/MSS/AJ