145,000 Lightning Strikes Recorded Last Year... Double the Previous Year

Last year, there were 145,000 lightning strikes observed in South Korea, which is approximately double the number recorded the previous year.

Lightning is striking along with heavy rain at Sadong Park in Sangnok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do. Photo by Yonhap News

According to the annual lightning report released by the Korea Meteorological Administration on April 30, North Gyeongsang Province accounted for the highest proportion of annual lightning strikes among all metropolitan cities and provinces nationwide, with 22,780 strikes, representing 16% of the total. This was followed by Gyeonggi Province with 21,742 strikes and South Gyeongsang Province with 19,649 strikes.

84% of lightning strikes were concentrated between June and August. In particular, August 5 of last year recorded 27,431 lightning strikes in a single day, making it the day with the highest number of lightning strikes observed during the year.

Jang Dongwon, Administrator of the Korea Meteorological Administration, stated, "During the summer, when lightning is concentrated and outdoor activities increase, the public may be exposed to a higher risk of lightning, so extra caution is necessary." He added, "It is important to familiarize yourself with safety guidelines in advance, check real-time lightning information carefully, and refrain from outdoor activities during lightning events."