INTRODUCTION
Lightning is a phenomenon that has not only incited interests but also scared mankind. Each second about 50 to 100 lightning strikes occur over the Earth. Over the recent years lightning is identified as the single most killer over India than compared to all other natural disasters. There is an increasing trend in death. Recent data suggests that lightning alone account for about 2000 to 2500 deaths every year in India.
ABOUT THE APP
Thunderstorms and lightning being a quick evolving meteorological phenomenon, the exact forecast of these events is a challenge. However, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune an autonomous Institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences has installed a Lightning Location Network with about 48 sensors over various parts of the country, connected to central processing unit at IITM, Pune. This network provides exact information about lightning strikes and movement of thunderstorm path. The network is being expanded with addition of more sensors to increase accuracy and reliability.
Using this network, Earth System Science Organization (ESSO) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) has developed a mobile app, DAMINI LIGHTNING. This App gives exact location of current lightning strikes, probable locations of impending lightning around area of 40 sq.km and movement and direction of thunderstorm. DAMINI also lists precautionary steps to be taken during lightning and some general information on lightning.
BENEFITS FOR FARMERS
In view of the current incidents of increased lightning strikes, the Cane Development Department has advised farmers to use the DAMINI app. During the Kharif season, farmers have to work in the fields even in the rain, which can cause great threat to their lives as they will be the most vulnerable ones when a lightning strikes the ground.
Cane commissioner Sanjay Bhoosreddy said the mobile application would provide farmers SMS and audio messages about any possible thunder strike around their fields. Also instructions to not find shelter under trees, rocks and hilly areas will be pushed via the app. This step could save the lives of a lot of farmers that work tirelessly in the fields during heavy rains and disturbing weather.
To access the app follow the link https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lightening.live.damini&hl=en_IN&gl=US
