For example, in October 2017, a breathtaking atmospheric event occurred. One particularly long lightning strike, known as a megaflash, broke records by extending an unbelievable 829 kilometers over Texas, USA. This amazing natural display is one form of crawler lightning. It broke the prior distance record of 768 kilometers set back in April 2020. This unique view was captured by the latest state-of-the-art satellite operated by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This unprecedented sighting resulted in a remarkable new record.
Megaflashes are notable for their extreme distance range, forming incredible displays of long-range electricity that can extend over 100 miles. The recent, record-setting megaflash is a vivid reminder of just how awe-inspiring our planet can be. It further demonstrates the remarkable advancements that have been made in modern meteorological technologies.
Understanding Megaflashes
Megaflashes, or crawler lightning as they are sometimes called, are long-duration lightning strikes that can travel for hundreds of miles. Severe weather conditions, specifically severe storms and cold snaps, are the main catalysts for these events. They can occur when the merging of individual thunderstorms creates a mesoscale convective system. Here, atmospheric scientist Dr. Kerryn Hawke of Murdoch University III breaks down how these systems form the ideal recipe for megaflashes. They permit thunderstorms to group up and grow stronger.
Dr. Hawke describes how megaflashes are usually difficult to spot without specialized satellite data. “You wouldn’t really be able to tell that it’s a megaflash just by looking at it,” she noted. As satellite observation technology continues to advance, scientists will be able to identify longer flashes. Their goal is to get a clearer picture of what’s behind these deadly weather anomalies.
The record-breaking megaflash in Texas was one of the first storms captured using NOAA’s new satellite technology, emphasizing the importance of such advancements in providing insights into severe weather patterns.
Regional Lightning Hotspots
As you might have heard, the U.S. just went through a period of extreme “bolt from the blue” lightning events. At the same time, areas like Australia—particularly the Top End and Kimberley—experience just as much lightning. Rob Warren, a research scientist at the Bureau of Meteorology, states that these regions are major lightning hotspots due to their unique weather conditions. “The combination of high temperatures and high humidity during the pre-monsoon or build-up season provides ideal conditions for the development of strong thunderstorms that produce much lightning,” he explained.
According to Dr. Milton Speer, a meteorologist with the University of Technology Sydney, very large thunderstorms are exceptionally uncommon in Australia. Similar storms are much more frequent in the U.S. He proposes that deep continuous squall lines are the key ingredient allowing megaflashes to occur. This makes the occurrence of such events even rarer in the Australian landscape.
Dr. Hawke emphasizes the importance of understanding the regional differences in lightning activity. She notes that areas like Africa, where enormous amounts of lightning happen, are frequently under-observed. “We do know that convective storms are getting more intense and more severe,” she added, indicating that this trend may lead to increased lightning events globally.
Safety Protocols and Recommendations
As evidenced by the risks involved with lightning strikes, safety precautions need to be prioritized, especially on thunderstorms. Dr. Hawke emphasizes that all sporting events and outdoor activities need to have clear thunderstorm protocols, such as a noticeable agenda for when to evacuate and keep everyone safe. “If you are outdoors and you can’t find shelter, then one other key thing is to avoid high ground, high structures, and high trees,” she advised.
She further explained that maintaining a low profile during storms can reduce risk. “That creates as little area of you on the ground as possible.” These guidelines are essential for reducing risk of injury during extreme weather conditions that are marked by regular lightning.
Randall Cerveny, a representative of NOAA, remarked on the significance of the new record: “This new record clearly demonstrates the incredible power of the natural environment.” This announcement emphasizes the importance of continued research and tracking to address the ongoing effects of increasingly severe and unpredictable weather patterns.
