Lightning is one of nature's most fascinating and powerful forces. It has amazed and frightened people for centuries, inspiring myths and stories. While scientists understand how lightning forms, predicting exactly where it will strike remains a challenge.

A new study by researchers from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) explores how landscapes influence lightning strikes in North and Northeast India.

The study analyzed data from 2001 to 2014 using satellite technology to track lightning and compare it to land types like forests, farms, and cities. They also studied weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, and atmospheric instability to understand patterns.

The findings show that North India (NI) experiences more lightning than Northeast India (NEI), but at different times. NI sees most strikes during the monsoon (June–September), while NEI experiences more in the pre-monsoon months (March–May).

Cities and farmlands have more lightning because they heat up quickly, creating the perfect conditions for thunderstorms. In contrast, forests and grasslands see moderate lightning due to higher soil moisture.

Mountains also play a role. Lightning is common in the Himalayan foothills due to warm, moist air rising. Most strikes happen at lower altitudes (below 1,600 feet) and decrease at higher elevations.

This study highlights how human activities and natural landscapes influence lightning. Understanding these patterns can help improve safety measures, city planning, and sustainable land use.