On the 6th, the Tibet Autonomous Region Lightning Protection Center reported that recent thunderstorms and convective weather have increased, marking the start of the peak lightning season in Tibet. Meteorological experts emphasized that Tibet is a region prone to severe thunderstorms, and understanding preventive measures and raising awareness are especially crucial during such weather events.
According to the Lightning Protection Center of the Tibet Autonomous Region Meteorological Bureau, lightning disasters are among the top 10 most severe natural disasters listed by the United Nations. Due to Tibet’s complex terrain and variable climate, the plateau experiences an average of over 75 thunderstorm days per year, making it a high-risk area for thunderstorms. Owing to its unique climatic conditions, the period from June to October is the peak lightning season in Tibet, during which lightning-related injuries and property damage occur frequently.
On the night of June 4 and early morning of June 6, Lhasa experienced consecutive severe thunderstorms, resulting in damage to electrical appliances in some residents’ homes, disruption of cable TV signals in parts of the eastern suburbs of Lhasa, and varying degrees of computer damage in certain organizations. Fu Yanghu, a senior engineer at the Regional Meteorological Observatory, explained that lightning is a discharge phenomenon in the atmosphere. Although the discharge lasts only a short time, it generates impulse voltages ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of volts, with discharge currents reaching tens to hundreds of thousands of amperes, and arc temperatures exceeding several thousand degrees—all of which illustrate the significant hazards posed. Therefore, it is particularly important to raise awareness and understand basic preventive measures.
Fu Yanghu advised that when encountering thunderstorms, people should stay indoors as much as possible, close doors and windows to prevent dangerous side flashes and ball lightning from entering. They should also turn off electrical appliances such as televisions and computers, unplug power sources, avoid making or receiving calls on mobile or landline phones, refrain from standing under light bulbs, touching indoor metal water pipes, or using solar water heaters for showers.
If caught outdoors, one should try to avoid staying on mountaintops, ridges, or the tops of buildings, and keep away from iron fences, metal clotheslines, overhead metal objects, and railway tracks. It is crucial not to use umbrellas or take shelter under trees or chimneys. If there is no other option, one should maintain at least a 5-meter distance from tree trunks, squat with legs together, hug the knees, press the chest to the knees, and keep the head as low as possible. Additionally, avoid riding motorcycles or bicycles, and opt for traveling by car whenever possible.
Meteorological experts also specifically reminded that, as the peak tourist season for Tibet is currently underway, travelers—especially those planning cycling or trekking trips—must enhance their awareness of precautions, strive to learn more about lightning protection, and, where possible, stay updated on weather forecasts issued by Tibet’s meteorological authorities. They should plan their travel accordingly based on weather conditions to avoid personal injury caused by lightning.