Lightning is a powerful natural phenomenon, resulting from electrical discharges
due to voltage imbalances between storm clouds and the ground or within the clouds
themselves. The majority of lightning occurs within clouds.
During storms, the collision of rain, ice, or snow particles within storm clouds leads
to an electrical imbalance. The lower levels of these clouds often become negatively
charged, while objects on the ground, like steeples, trees, and the Earth, acquire a
positive charge. This imbalance triggers the flow of current, resulting in a lightning
strike.
Lightning is extremely hot, with a single flash capable of heating the surrounding air
to temperatures five times hotter than the surface of the sun.
Body
Palm Trees as a Measure Against Lightning Strikes
The Odisha government has initiated a project to plant 19 lakh palm trees to reduce
lightning-related fatalities.
According to the Annual Lightning Report 2023-2024 by the Climate Resilient
Observing Systems Promotion Council (CROPC) and the
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), eastern and central India experience the
highest number of cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning strikes.
Odisha, in particular, is highly vulnerable due to its complex climatic factors, such
as pre-monsoon and monsoon periods, cyclonic activities influenced by sea
temperature, and atmospheric convective energy, all contributing to increased
lightning occurrences.
Palm trees*
are effective as natural lightning conductors due to their height relative to other
trees. Their high moisture and sap content allow them to absorb lightning, thereby
reducing its direct impact on the ground.
Conclusion
With over *80% of Odisha’s population* dependent on agriculture and related
occupations, many people spend long hours in open fields, making them particularly
susceptible to lightning strikes.
In response, the *Office of the Special Relief Commissioner* has sanctioned a
budget of Rs 7 crore for this initiative. The state has prohibited the removal of
existing palm trees and plans to plant 19 lakh palm trees initially along forest
boundaries, aiming to protect its population from the dangers of lightning strikes.