A devastating lightning strike in Tharparkar, Sindh, claimed the life of a man and killed 23 animals as heavy monsoon rains with thunderstorms lashed the region. The incident occurred near Nagarparkar, where repeated lightning strikes have been reported in recent weeks.
According to local residents, lightning struck a katcha hut in Pasol village, instantly killing 32-year-old Taro Kohli while he was sleeping inside. The powerful strike highlights the growing risk faced by remote communities in rural Sindh during the monsoon season.
Livestock Suffer Major Losses
In addition to the tragic human death, lightning strikes also killed 21 goats and two cows in separate incidents across nearby villages including Mithrio Halepota, Rojh, and Dhanbhario. Villagers explained that most of the animals were grazing in open fields when they were struck.
The district livestock department reported that since June 14, 2025, at least 193 cattle have died due to lightning strikes in different parts of Tharparkar. For an area already struggling with economic hardships and dependence on livestock, these repeated losses have raised serious concerns for farmers and herders.
Safety Advisory for Residents
Authorities have urged residents to take extra precautions during thunderstorms. The provincial health department has issued guidelines advising citizens to avoid:
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Staying in open fields during rainfall.
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Seeking shelter under trees during lightning.
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Keeping livestock in safer enclosures during storms.
Such measures, officials explained, could significantly reduce the risks of injuries, fatalities, and further livestock losses in Tharparkar and other vulnerable districts of Sindh.
Monsoon Season in Sindh: A Double-Edged Sword
The ongoing monsoon rains across Sindh and Karachi have brought much-needed relief for farmers but also increased dangers, including flooding, building collapses, and lightning incidents. Tharparkar, in particular, remains highly vulnerable due to its vast open landscapes, mud houses, and reliance on livestock.
The tragic death of Taro Kohli and the loss of dozens of animals underline the urgent need for disaster preparedness in rural Sindh. Experts suggest implementing community-level awareness programs, installing early warning systems, and constructing safer shelters for both humans and livestock.
The Tharparkar lightning strike of August 2025 once again highlights the destructive power of nature during the monsoon season. While rainfall is essential for agriculture in the drought-prone region, the increasing incidents of lightning fatalities and livestock deaths raise urgent concerns.
As Sindh continues to experience heavy monsoon showers, authorities and communities must work together to mitigate risks, protect vulnerable populations, and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands who depend on their livestock for survival.
