A climate science expert from the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), Dr. Isaac Tchuwa, has warned that Malawi should brace for more frequent and unusual lightning incidents due to rising temperatures linked to climate change.

Dr. Tchuwa says scientific evidence shows that Malawi, like the rest of the world, is increasingly vulnerable to abnormal lightning occurrences as global warming fuels stormy weather, heat waves and cyclones.

“Hot weather conditions (global warming) are closely associated with increased lightning activity. As temperatures rise, the atmosphere becomes more unstable, creating conditions that favour intense thunderstorms, cyclones and lightning,” said Dr. Tchuwa.

His remarks come at a time when lightning-related incidents have already claimed lives across the country.

According to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA),  15 people have died since the onset of this rainfall season due to weather related calamities in Chikwawa, Nsanje, Neno, Kasungu, Dowa and Mangochi districts, with 12 of the deaths caused by lightning strikes.

Dr. Tchuwa has called for more scientific studies to better understand isolated cases of high lightning activity in some areas, while emphasising the importance of human-centred interventions to reduce risk.

“Beyond research, strict adherence to weather warnings issued by the Meteorological Department is critical in minimising the loss of life and property,” he said.

Meanwhile, DoDMA spokesperson Chipiliro Khamula says lightning has so far killed 12 people and injured at least 51 others nationwide this season.

“We continue to urge communities to take warnings seriously and seek safe shelter during thunderstorms,” said Khamula.

So far, records show that heavy rains have also affected 8,096 households since the onset of the 2025/26 rainy season, with numerous houses damaged across the country.