Why is lightning considered wicked weather?

     Lightning is an atmospheric discharge of electricity accompanied by thunder, which typically occurs during thunderstorms. A leader of a bolt of lightning can travel at speeds of 220,000 km/h (140,000 mph). It can also reach temperatures approaching 30,000 °C (54,000 °F).


     There are many types of lightning. Some are:

• Cloud-to-ground lightning
• Bead lightning
• Ribbon lightning
• Dry lightning

     Cloud-to-ground lightning is the best known and second most common type of lightning. It has the greatest threat to life and property since it strikes the ground. Bead lightning is a type of cloud-to-ground lightning which appears to break up into a string of short, bright sections, which last longer than the usual discharge channel. Ribbon lightning occurs in thunderstorms with high cross winds and multiple return strokes. Dry lightning is lightning that occurs with no precipitation at the surface. It's usually the most common natural cause of wildfires.