Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

Do areas with underground utilities and underground irrigation systems attract more lightning strikes?

April 26, 2017areas irrigation lightning strikes SYSTEMS underground utilities

0

Posted

Do areas with underground utilities and underground irrigation systems attract more lightning strikes?

1 Answer

0

Posted

No. Cloud-to-ground lightning travels downward from 15,000 to 20,000 feet high in a typical summer thunderstorm cloud. When a cloud-to-ground flash comes to ground, it does not “pick” its target until it is within about 30 yards of the ground. The University of Florida has an ongoing study of the impact of lightning on underground utilities.