The conjunction "although" in this sentence is used to describe contrasting ideas present in two clauses.
Explanation:
"Although" is normally used as subordinating conjunctions i.e. to connect subordinate clause to the main clause. The sentence describes two contrasting or different ideas. From the idea, that thunderstorms are more common than hurricanes and tornadoes, one expects they would be less dangerous. But in contrast it is not the case (according to the author) - they are equally dangerous. Hence "although" is used to connect two contrasting ideas of two clauses.
I say they should have the same rights as others because everyone needs to be treated equally. As the golden rule says, "Treat others the way you want to be treated" meaning, you should be nice to someone if you want them to be nice to you.
