A lightning bolt strikes One World Trade Center during a thunderstorm in New York City on June 22, 2024, as seen from Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)
Share this @internewscast.com

ST. LOUIS (KTVI) – Many of us are familiar with the term “heat lightning,” often referenced on warm summer nights when we observe vibrant lightning without hearing accompanying thunder. However, what some may not realize is that “heat lightning” doesn’t technically exist.

Usually, the idea sparks from the thought that heat can trigger lightning, as it’s most commonly seen in the hot summer months.

A lightning bolt strikes One World Trade Center during a thunderstorm in New York City on June 22, 2024, as seen from Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)
A lightning bolt strikes One World Trade Center during a thunderstorm in New York City on June 22, 2024, as seen from Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

Quite simply, the lightning you observe is part of a distant storm, far enough away that the thunder isn’t audible, nor is the full extent of the lightning visible. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, during an intense thunderstorm, lightning can be seen from up to 100 miles away due to how the light reflects.

The National Weather Service explains, “Frequently, geographical features like mountains, hills, or trees, along with the Earth’s curvature, block the view of the actual lightning flash. The faint flash appears to the observer as light reflecting off higher-level clouds.”

Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service

Thunder can only be heard within a 10-mile radius from the lightning strike; however, if you’re listening to an AM frequency radio, static may be heard.

Always keep in mind that if thunder can be heard, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. As the saying goes, “When thunder roars, go indoors.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

82-Year-Old Kansas Resident Poised to Set Record as Oldest to Reach Mt. Everest Base Camp

In an inspiring feat, an 82-year-old man from the Kansas City area…

Le Cafe Introduces Augusta to a Unique Blend of Art, Culture, and Literature Experiences

AUGUSTA, Ga. () — Augusta is set to host a vibrant gathering…

Mid-Flight Windshield Crack Forces United Airlines Emergency Diversion: Investigation Underway

LOS ANGELES (KTLA) — Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances…

Controversial Artillery Plans During Vance Visit Sparks Tension with California’s Newsom

A plan to conduct a live artillery exercise over a major highway…

Limp Bizkit’s Sam Rivers Passes Away at Age 48

Sam Rivers, the bassist and a founding member of the rock band…

Prosecutors Reveal Man’s Attempt to Dodge Charges by Seeking Deportation

A man from Mexico who turned himself over to federal authorities in…

Suspect at Large: U of I Campustown Shooting Leaves One Hospitalized as Police Intensify Search

UPDATE at 10:30 a.m. CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A man is currently…

How to Navigate Medicare Increases in 2026: Essential Tips for Saving During Open Enrollment

Amid growing concerns about the future of Medicare, a recent survey by…

Hundreds Rally in Tampa for ‘No Kings’ Protest Movement

Across the United States, including in the Tampa Bay area, ‘No Kings’…

Trump Accuses Colombia’s Petro of Drug Leadership, Vows to Halt US Aid: A Diplomatic Shake-Up

PALM BEACH, Fla. – In a move that heightens tensions between the…

Anticipation Builds for Savannah Pride 2025 Celebration

SAVANNAH, Ga. – The vibrant Savannah Pride Festival is on the horizon,…

Tragic Shooting in Slavic Village Leaves 2 Dead, 2 Injured

[Watch Cleveland’s homicide statistics in the video above.] CLEVELAND (WJW) — Authorities…