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3.2.14 Lightning
Calculated Priority Risk Index
2.80 Moderate
Description
Planning Significance
According to the National Weather Service, lightning is one of the most underrated severe
weather hazards. The second deadliest weather killer in the United States, it ranks above
hurricanes or tornadoes. Of the estimated 1,000 people who are struck by lightning each year
on the U.S., only 10 percent are killed, but survivors may suffer life-long disabilities.
Severe thunderstorms strike Kansas on a regular basis. In addition to the heavy rains that
cause floods, high winds, tornadoes and thunderstorms, lightning often accompanies
thunderstorms and can cause injury, death, property damage and wild land fires. The
widespread and frequent nature of thunderstorms makes lightning a relatively common
occurrence. Of particular concern to Kansas is protection of facilities and communications
systems that are important to emergency response operations, protection of public health and
maintenance of the State’s economy. The threat to communications systems includes tornado
sirens, which could get knocked out just when they are needed most.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, there are 7 main types of
lightning:
Intra – Cloud: This is the most common type of lightning and completely inside of a cloud.
Cloud to Cloud: This type of lightning occurs between two or more clouds.
Cloud to Air: Lightning that is generated in a positively charged cloud top and reaches out to
negatively charged air around it.
Bolt from the blue: Originates within the updraft of a storm, travels horizontally for many miles,
then strikes the ground.
Anvil Lightning: Lightning that develops in the anvil of a thunderstorm cloud and travels straight
down to strike the ground.
Heat Lightning: Lightning from a thunderstorm that is too far away to be heard.
3.205