Understanding Lightning as a Public Health Hazard: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: Lightning is a sudden natural electrical discharge that causes significant mortality and injury worldwide. In India, lightning has emerged as a major cause of weather-related deaths, especially among rural and agricultural communities. Climate change, deforestation, and urbanisation have further increased the frequency and intensity of lightning events. Methods: This narrative review was conducted using information collected from online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, along with reports from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Studies published between 2000 and 2025 were included. The keywords used were “lightning injuries,” “lightning fatalities,” “thunderstorms,” “climate change,” “India,” and “public health.” The data were analysed qualitatively and organised into key themes: mechanism of injury, epidemiology, impacts, and mitigation measures. Results: Lightning remains one of the leading causes of natural disaster-related deaths in India, accounting for a large share of rural fatalities. Most victims are outdoor workers such as farmers and labourers, and incidents are concentrated during the monsoon months. Environmental and socio-economic factors, including unsafe housing and limited awareness, contribute to high vulnerability. However, early warning systems, mobile applications like Damini and SACHET, and improved disaster preparedness have led to a noticeable decline in fatalities in recent years. Discussion: Despite growing awareness and technological interventions, lightning continues to pose a serious public health challenge. Strengthening community-based preparedness, promoting safe shelter practices, and integrating lightning safety into disaster management policies are essential to reduce future risks. Continued public education and coordinated policy action are key to building a lightning-resilient society.