The Ministry of Health and Population has issued a statement, urging health institutions and relevant authorities nationwide to be prepared for effectively managing lightning injuries and ensuring safety from lightning strikes.

Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the Ministry’s spokesperson, emphasized the need to equip health facilities and equipment to withstand lightning. He highlighted that the approach to handling lightning-related injuries differs from injuries caused by other electrical disasters.

According to Ministry data, there were a total of 187 lightning incidents recorded between June 5 and October 16, 2022, resulting in 60 fatalities and 157 injuries.

The statement underscored that last year, lightning incidents ranked highest in terms of both deaths and injuries from natural disasters.