Mar 12, 2025 · Lightning strikes over the ocean are caused by the same basic mechanisms as lightning strikes over land, involving the buildup of electrical charges in cumulonimbus clouds. However, the unique characteristics of the ocean environment, such as the high salt content and the presence of sea spray, can influence the formation and behavior of lightning.

Lightning doesn’t strike the ocean as much as land, but when it does,it spreads out over the water, which acts as a conductor. It can hit boats that are nearby, and electrocute fish that are near the surface. If you’re at the beach and hear thunder or see lightning, get out of the water.

Jan 17, 2024 · Contrary to popular belief, a direct lightning strike doesn’t cause the ocean to boil or dramatically increase in temperature. The immense energy of the lightning is largely dissipated rapidly over a large volume of water due to its high heat capacity and conductivity.

The distance over which lightning can cause damage or death to swimmers depends on several factors, including the power of the lightning strike, the conductivity of seawater, depth of the water and the swimmer’s proximity to the strike point.

Aug 18, 2023 · When lightning strikes, most of the electrical discharge happens at the water’s surface. The majority of fish swim under the surface and are unharmed. Although experts do not know how far the lightning discharge penetrates water, swimming or boating during a thunderstorm is very dangerous.

Bodies of water are frequently struck by lightning. So why don't all the fish die? Before a lightning strike, a charge builds up along the water's surface. When lightning strikes, most of electrical discharge occurs near the water's surface. Most fish swim below the surface and are unaffected.

Lightning spreads out horizontally over the water, which acts as a conductor. It can hit boats and electrocute fish near the surface. The sound of a lightning strike in the water can also be dangerous, reaching up to 260 dB at 1 metre and causing hearing loss or even killing fish.

When lightning strikes water, it creates a path of ionization – a process where the electrical charge separates the water molecules and creates a temporary conductive channel. But how far does this conductive path extend? Can it travel long distances, or does it dissipate quickly?

Jul 28, 2014 · Research by Nasa shows lightning is more likely to hit land than sea and that it is rare for strikes to occur in deep ocean areas. Waters just off coasts are more often affected. Risks also...

Apr 30, 2025 · When lightning strikes water, it can have a range of effects, from the dramatic to the deadly. One of the most interesting aspects of lightning strikes on water is the way they interact with the water’s surface. Because water is an excellent conductor of electricity, lightning can travel long distances through the water, potentially striking ...