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Germany Logs Record Lightning Flashes in 2024 as Experts Unpack Storm Science and Safety

With the highest annual strike tally in seven years, experts emphasize understanding lightning mechanics to reduce risks through proper shelter

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Overview

  • Lightning forms when towering cumulonimbus clouds separate charges via ice crystals and water droplets, triggering intra-cloud or cloud-to-ground discharges
  • Nowcast recorded over 1.5 million flashes of at least 5 kiloamperes in Germany last year, with around 210 000 strikes reaching the ground
  • Air heated to roughly 30 000 °C in a lightning channel expands explosively, creating shockwaves that manifest as thunder
  • Petrichor— the earthy scent after a drought—occurs when rain impacts soil releasing oils excreted by plants into the air
  • The Deutscher Wetterdienst advises seeking sturdy buildings or vehicles during thunderstorms and avoiding isolated trees, metal structures and open water