Dallas, Texas to Kansas City, Missouri, July 31, 2025
News Summary
A remarkable world record has been established for the longest lightning strike, measuring an incredible 515 miles between Dallas, Texas, and Kansas City, Missouri. This striking event occurred in 2017 but was only confirmed recently after extensive analysis by researchers utilizing advanced satellite technology. The record highlights the dangers associated with lightning and the importance of storm safety awareness among the public. The World Meteorological Organization officially verified this record, enhancing our understanding of lightning phenomena and their travel capabilities.
Atlanta
A new world record has been confirmed for the longest lightning strike in history, stretching an astonishing 515 miles (829 kilometers) between Dallas, Texas, and Kansas City, Missouri. This record-breaking lightning flash occurred in 2017 but only became known to the scientific community last year after a rigorous examination by researchers.
Dr. Michael Peterson, an applied physicist at the Severe Storms Research Center at the Georgia Tech Research Institute, and his team uncovered this remarkable “megaflash” utilizing advanced lightning detection technology. The lightning flash had previously gone unnoticed for nearly a decade, primarily due to its size and complexity, which led to it being overlooked during earlier data evaluations.
The discovery was made possible by the advancement in satellite technology, particularly the NOAA’s GOES-R series satellites. These satellites enabled researchers to access a larger volume of storm data, enhancing their ability to monitor and understand lightning occurrences. The newly developed Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) played a crucial role in measuring the sizes and frequencies of lightning flashes across the continental United States, including the newly confirmed record.
Record Details
The previous record for horizontal lightning was 477 miles (768 kilometers), making this new record a significant improvement. Horizontal lightning often occurs not at the core of the storm where one might expect it, but rather at the quieter outer edges. This ability of horizontal lightning to travel vast distances creates unique hazardous situations for those who may think they are safe once a storm has passed.
Dr. Peterson expressed that the danger of prolonged lightning strikes is heightened by the common misconception regarding storm safety, emphasizing the need for vigilance when storms are present, as lightning can be deceptive.
The certification of the world record was carried out by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which is the official authority for such weather records, rather than Guinness World Records. The certification process involved a detailed review by a committee of experts who assessed the reliability of the measurements gathered using a combination of satellite imagery and ground-based detection networks.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, new European lightning sensors are set to be deployed for monitoring lightning conditions in Africa and Europe. This expansion in monitoring technology has the potential to identify and confirm more lightning records in the future.
Dr. Peterson’s ongoing research aims to enhance the understanding of lightning phenomena, highlighting the risks posed by even a single lightning strike. The advancements in technology and research techniques showcase the importance of monitoring and evaluating lightning occurrences to enhance public safety, particularly in storm-prone areas.
Conclusion
As lightning detection technology continues to evolve, the knowledge gained from such records can assist in forecasting and improving safety measures, ultimately protecting lives and property from the unpredictable nature of thunderstorms.
FAQ
What is the world record for the longest lightning strike?
The world record for the longest lightning strike is 515 miles (829 kilometers), confirmed by researchers from Georgia Tech.
When did this record-breaking lightning event occur?
The record-breaking lightning strike occurred in 2017 but was only confirmed in the past year.
What technology enabled the discovery of this lightning record?
The discovery was enabled by advanced satellite technology, specifically the NOAA’s GOES-R series satellites and the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM).
What organization officially certifies lightning records?
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is the official certifying body for weather-related records, including lightning strikes.
Key Features of the Lightning Record
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Record Length | 515 miles (829 kilometers) |
| Location | From Dallas, Texas, to Kansas City, Missouri |
| Year Recorded | 2017 |
| Confirmed By | Georgia Tech Researchers |
| Previous Record | 477 miles (768 kilometers) |
| Certification Organization | World Meteorological Organization (WMO) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Georgia Tech Scientist Helps Discover Longest Ever Lightning Strike
- 11Alive: Georgia Tech Scientist Lightning Record
- Fox Weather: Daily Weather Update June 7, 2025
- BKFC: Justin Watson Makes History with 2-Second KO in Atlanta
- Car and Driver: 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Five Track Records
- Wikipedia: Lightning
- Google Search: Lightning Records
- Google Scholar: Lightning Research
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
- Google News: Lightning Records
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
