Oklahoma Becomes New Lightning Capital of the U.S. in 2025
Oklahoma Becomes New Lightning Capital of the U.S. in 2025
US · Published Jan 6, 2026
Oklahoma has surpassed Florida as the U.S. state with the highest concentration of lightning flashes in
Oklahoma experienced approximately 73 lightning flashes per square mile due to an active severe weather year.
Texas recorded the highest volume of lightning flashes, exceeding 13 million, highlighting the Great Plains' increasing storm activity.
Oklahoma surpasses Florida as lightning capital
Oklahoma has officially been named the new lightning capital of the United States for 2025, surpassing Florida, which has long held the title. A report released on January 5, 2026, utilizing data from AEM's advanced lightning detection network, reveals that Oklahoma experienced approximately 73 lightning flashes per square mile throughout the year. This significant increase is attributed to Oklahoma's particularly active severe weather season, characterized by above-average precipitation levels.
Related News