Lightning

Lightning is a huge flash of electricity in the sky. It happens during thunderstorms. A lightning bolt is super hot and very bright. It can move from cloud to cloud or from a cloud to the ground.

How It Works

Inside a storm cloud, tiny bits of ice and water bump into each other. This makes an electric charge, like when you rub your feet on a carpet. When the charge gets very big, it jumps as a bolt of lightning. The bolt goes to another cloud or down to the ground.

A diagram shows how lightning zaps from clouds to the ground.
A diagram shows how lightning zaps from clouds to the ground. (CharlesC / Wikimedia Commons)

Staying Safe

Lightning can be dangerous. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. It is best to go inside a building or a car. Do not stand under a tall tree. Stay away from water and metal things during a storm.

Fun Facts

  • A lightning bolt is hotter than the surface of the sun.
  • Lightning hits the Earth about 100 times every second.
  • Ben Franklin proved lightning was electricity with a kite.

Did You Know?

The Empire State Building in New York is struck by lightning about 25 times every year.