Lightning Strikes Kill 29 Cattle

In Kalapara upazila of Patuakhali district, continuous thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall over two consecutive days have resulted in the death of at least 29 cattle due to lightning strikes. According to the Upazila Department of Livestock Services, 23 farmers have so far been identified as affected. However, officials have indicated that the actual number of livestock deaths is likely higher than the confirmed figure. Farmers have estimated their total financial loss at approximately 6 million taka.

The Upazila Livestock Officer, Maruf Billah, confirmed the incident, stating that reports collected from Tuesday and Wednesday confirmed 29 cattle deaths caused by lightning. He further noted that 23 affected farmers have been officially listed, though additional cases may still emerge as reporting continues.

The affected farmers include residents from several unions within the upazila. Among them are Delwar Hossain of Tarikata village in Dhulasar Union; Ibrahim Hawlader of South Baliatali village in Baliatali Union; Habibullah of Baliatali village; Shahida Begum of Refugeepara; Anesh Khan and Enayet Talukdar of Madhukhali village in Madhukhali Union; and Noor Hossain of Komorpur village in Mohipur Union.

Farmers reported that the sudden onset of a severe nor’wester storm on Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by intense lightning activity, caused widespread disruption. Livestock that had been tethered in fields or open areas were struck during the storm. Both adult dairy cattle and calves, including animals being fattened for upcoming sale, were among those killed. Several farmers stated that the losses occurred only days before they intended to sell the cattle in local markets.

One affected farmer, Ruhul Amin Khan of Azimuddin village in Mithaganj Union, reported that a dairy cow tied in a field was struck by lightning and died instantly on Tuesday afternoon. He estimated his personal financial loss at around one lakh taka.

Authorities have stated that a formal assessment of the damage is ongoing. The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Kawsar Hamid, said that lists of affected livestock owners are being prepared and will be forwarded to higher authorities. He also confirmed that government assistance, including cash support, food aid, and corrugated iron sheets, will be provided for households whose homes have been damaged in the same weather event.

Reported victims and locations

According to the livestock department, the confirmed toll stands at 29 cattle deaths across 23 farmers, though verification efforts continue in affected areas.