In June 2020, scientists observed a single lightning flash that was 17.1 seconds, becoming the longest-lasting lightning flash ever recorded. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the unusually long strike took place over Uruguay and northern Argentina. This incident was only one of two record-breaking lightning strikes confirmed by the WMO on Monday.
There was another record-breaking lightning flash that covered around 477 miles in the southern US on April 29, 2020.
That distance is equal to the distance between London and the German city of Hamburg, and stretched over three US states.
The April 2020 flash was 60 km longer than the previous record.
Meanwhile, the previous longest duration flash was 16.7 seconds.
Randall Cerveny, an expert of weather and climate extremes for the WMO, said in a statement: “These are extraordinary records from single lightning flash events.
“Environmental extremes are living measurements of the power of nature, as well as scientific progress in being able to make such assessments.
“It is likely that even greater extremes still exist, and that we will be able to observe them as lightning detection technology improves.”
WMO Secretary-General Prof Petteri Taalas said: “Lightning is a major hazard that claims many lives every year.
“The findings highlight important public lightning safety concerns for electrified clouds where flashes can travel extremely large distances.”
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