Lightning

Lightning is a natural phenomenon accompanied by flashes of light and thunder, which is the process of neutralizing electric charges in the air. Lightning usually occurs in strong convective weather, especially in summer. It forms in cumulonimbus clouds with vigorous convection, where electric charges accumulate inside or between the clouds, creating a potential difference. When this potential difference reaches a certain level, a discharge occurs, resulting in lightning and thunder.

Conditions for the formation of lightning

Air movement: Intense movement of air masses leads to the separation of electric charges, forming positive and negative charges. When these charges are unevenly distributed, a discharge occurs.

Absolute humidity: Water vapor in the air is crucial for the ionization process. On rainy and humid days, it is easier for lightning to occur.

Convection movement: Strong convection movement is an important condition for the formation of lightning, as it causes charged clouds to meet rapidly, leading to charge neutralization and the formation of lightning.

Types of lightning and their destructive effects

Direct lightning: A discharge occurs directly between the charged cloud and buildings, trees, etc.

Induced lightning: High voltage and high current are generated in metal pipelines through electromagnetic induction.

Ball lightning: A rare spherical lightning phenomenon.

Lightning intrusion wave: Enters buildings through wires, pipes, etc.