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Oklahoma Tops 2025 U.S. Lightning Rankings, Ousting Florida

Researchers say more 2026 data will determine whether the shift is temporary.

Overview

  • Oklahoma recorded about 73 flashes per square mile in 2025, surpassing Florida based on AEM’s nationwide sensor network.
  • Kay County, Oklahoma, led all counties with approximately 123.4 flashes per square mile.
  • AEM measured more than 88.4 million lightning flashes across the U.S. last year, an increase of about 9.8% from 2024.
  • Texas logged the highest total flashes with more than 13 million as Great Plains states dominated volume rankings.
  • The National Lightning Safety Council reported 21 U.S. lightning fatalities in 2025, with Florida accounting for four.