Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Eswatini Meteorological Service has warned the nation to take precautions amid rising cases of lightning-related incidents.
This as the country has recently been dealing with increasingly severe weather conditions, with hailstorms and thunderstorms wreaking havoc across various regions. These storms have resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of homes and crops, as well as a concerning rise in lightning-related incidents, including injuries and fatalities involving both people and cattle.
In response, Eswatini Meteorological Service Director Duduzile Nhlengetfwa has issued a series of safety warnings to help the public navigate the dangers associated with these extreme weather events.
Speaking on the EBIS 1 Letishisako programme, Nhlengetfwa highlighted the growing risks, urging citizens to take all weather warnings seriously.
“People must take thunderstorms seriously. They should avoid using mobile phones during storms and make sure they stay in safe, secure places,” she said.
Nhlengetfwa emphasized the importance of proper home wiring, as faulty electrical systems can increase the risk of being struck by lightning. She explained that climate change has contributed to the rising frequency and intensity of thunderstorms, making it more essential than ever for people to be prepared.
The recent hailstorms, particularly in areas such as Mafutseni, Ntfonjeni, Ngculwini, Malindza, and Mtfongwaneni, have left many homes severely damaged. The strong winds and heavy hail not only caused structural damage but also destroyed crops, affecting local agriculture. These events have prompted several warnings from the Eswatini Meteorological Service, particularly regarding the dangers posed by lightning and hailstorms.
As part of her safety recommendations, Nhlengetfwa advised citizens to avoid standing under tall trees or lightning arresters, which attract lightning.
She also urged people to fix their roofing ahead of storms and not wait until a hailstorm is imminent.
“It’s better to prepare in advance than to deal with the dangers posed during a storm,” she added.
Additionally, she cautioned the public to unplug electrical appliances during thunderstorms and to avoid crowded, confined spaces where heat can heighten the risk of lightning strikes.
This year’s severe weather has underscored the urgency of proactive safety measures. Nhlengetfwa noted that the country has seen a surge in lightning-related incidents, stressing the need for heightened vigilance. “This is a season where we need to be extra careful,” she warned. With more thunderstorms expected, she urged the public to stay informed through regular weather updates and to follow all safety guidelines to minimize the risks associated with these increasingly frequent and destructive storms.
As Eswatini continues to recover from the recent devastation, the collaboration between local authorities, the Eswatini Meteorological Service, and humanitarian organizations like World Vision will remain crucial in providing relief and rebuilding efforts. The public’s adherence to these safety measures will play a vital role in reducing the human and material toll of these extreme weather events.
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