how far can lightning travel
Lightning is a massive electrostatic discharge that can travel significant distances through the air. The distance that lightning can travel depends on several factors, including:
- Type of lightning: There are two main types of lightning: intracloud lightning (within a cloud) and cloud-to-ground lightning (from a cloud to the ground). Cloud-to-ground lightning can travel farther than intracloud lightning.
- Intensity of the lightning: More powerful lightning bolts can travel longer distances.
- Air density and humidity: Lightning can travel farther in areas with lower air density and higher humidity.
On average, a lightning bolt can travel:
- Up to 10 miles (16 kilometers): Intracloud lightning can travel within a cloud for up to 10 miles.
- Up to 20 miles (32 kilometers): Cloud-to-ground lightning can travel from a cloud to the ground for up to 20 miles.
- Up to 50 miles (80 kilometers): In rare cases, a powerful lightning bolt can travel up to 50 miles or more, known as a "superbolt."
The speed of lightning is approximately 270,000 kilometers per hour (170,000 miles per hour), which is faster than the speed of sound. This is why we see lightning before we hear the thunder.
It’s worth noting that lightning can also travel through conductive objects, such as metal wires or pipes, and can cause damage or start fires. This is known as a "side flash" or "conducted lightning strike."
