how far can lightning strike

Lightning is a massive electrostatic discharge that can strike the ground or other objects with incredible force. The distance that lightning can strike is often referred to as the "strike radius" or "strike distance." Here are some facts about the strike distance of lightning:

1. Direct Strike: A direct strike occurs when lightning hits the ground or an object directly. In this case, the strike distance is essentially zero, as the lightning bolt strikes the object or ground at the point of impact.
2. Side Flash: A side flash occurs when lightning strikes a nearby object, such as a tree or a power line, and then jumps to another object, like a building or a person. The strike distance for a side flash can be up to 10 meters (33 feet) or more, depending on the strength of the lightning bolt and the conductivity of the objects involved.
3. Ground Current: When lightning strikes the ground, it creates a massive electrical current that can travel through the earth. This current can cause electrical shocks to people or animals in contact with the ground, even if they are not directly under the strike point. The strike distance for ground current can be up to 100 meters (330 feet) or more, depending on the strength of the lightning bolt and the conductivity of the soil.
4. Cloud-to-Cloud Lightning: Cloud-to-cloud lightning occurs when a lightning bolt strikes another cloud or a layer of clouds. In this case, the strike distance is not relevant, as the lightning bolt does not strike the ground.

Maximum Strike Distance:
The maximum strike distance of lightning is not precisely known, but it is estimated to be around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) or more in rare cases. This is known as a "superbolt," which is an extremely powerful lightning bolt that can strike the ground with a force of up to 1 gigajoule (GJ).

Average Strike Distance:
The average strike distance of lightning is much shorter, typically around 100-200 meters (330-660 feet). This is because most lightning bolts are not as powerful as superbolt and tend to strike the ground or objects within a relatively short distance.

It’s worth noting that lightning can strike the ground or objects in a variety of ways, and the strike distance can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of the strike.