A 515-Mile Lightning Flash Is Longest on Record
9 months ago
- #satellite technology
- #lightning
- #climate change
- A 515-mile lightning flash, the longest ever recorded, was identified in satellite data from 2017.
- The 'megaflash' stretched from northeast Texas to Kansas City, surpassing the previous record by 38 miles.
- Advances in satellite technology have enabled more accurate tracking of lightning over large distances.
- Megaflashes originate from extensive, long-lived thunderstorms and can strike multiple locations far from their origin.
- Experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes after a storm passes before resuming outdoor activities due to lingering lightning risks.
- Climate change is increasing lightning frequency, especially in the Far North, due to hotter and more humid conditions.