Bhubaneswar: Odisha is reeling under a deadly spell of thunderstorms, with lightning strikes claiming 10 lives in just three days, most of them farmers caught in the fields during paddy transplantation.
Seven farmers, a cattle grazer, a mobile phone user, and a physical education teacher sheltering under a tree were among the victims, highlighting the vulnerability of those working outdoors.
Despite advance warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and awareness drives by the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), many in remote areas remain out of reach of mobile alerts.
In response, the state government is set to roll out Electric Field Meters with automatic sirens in five lightning-prone districts- Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Ganjam, Keonjhar, and Cuttack. Developed with support from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and IMD, the system will sound alarms within a 1.5-5 km radius, giving farmers and outdoor workers crucial minutes to seek shelter.
Experts warn lightning risk peaks during pre-monsoon and monsoon months, especially between 2 pm and 7 pm. Meteorologists advise farmers to finish fieldwork in the mornings and avoid open areas, trees, and water bodies during storms.
Government data shows Odisha recorded nearly 600 lightning deaths in 2023-25, with Mayurbhanj alone reporting 119 fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for stronger warning systems and public awareness.