Mapping Lightning Flash Density and Fatality Risk in Uttar Pradesh Using Satellite‐Based LIS Data and Geospatial Technology

ABSTRACT A detailed (high‐resolution) spatiotemporal analysis of lightning flash clusters and fatalities in Uttar Pradesh, India, was conducted for 2000–2022. Unlike previous national or regional lightning assessments, this study integrates long‐term satellite‐based Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) observations with geospatial techniques to generate high‐resolution maps of lightning flash density (LFD) and fatality risk at the state level. A total of 2 146 322 lightning flashes were recorded, showing substantial interannual variability, with a peak in 2007 and a low in 2018. Between 2000 and 2014, annual lightning strikes exceeded 120 000, whereas between 2018 and 2022, they mostly remained above 60 000 per year, indicating noticeable variation and an upward trend after 2018. Annual LFD (defined as flashes per square kilometer per year) revealed higher concentrations in the northeast, east, and parts of central Uttar Pradesh. Month‐to‐month LFD analysis showed peak lightning activity in May and the lowest in November, with sharp seasonality. Peaks coincided with the pre‐monsoon and monsoon periods, particularly in northeastern and eastern districts such as Sonbhadra and Kushinagar. The diurnal distribution peaked at 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Indian Standard Time (IST), with greater intensity from late evening to midnight, suggesting favorable conditions for thunderstorms. Analysis of lightning‐related fatalities recorded 5010 deaths, predominantly male, with the highest number in 2016. These findings emphasize the urgent need for public health interventions, safety awareness programs, and modern forecasting techniques to protect vulnerable populations. The study provides critical insights for developing targeted safety measures, public outreach initiatives, and urban planning strategies to mitigate lightning impacts in Uttar Pradesh.