Horizontal lightning refers to a specific type of lightning that occurs between clouds. Specifically, it's cloud-to-cloud lightning that forms a long bolt that stretches between different clouds.
Understanding Horizontal Lightning
Unlike cloud-to-ground lightning, which poses a direct threat to those on the ground, horizontal lightning doesn't reach the surface. This is because the electrical discharge travels across the sky between clouds rather than from the clouds to the earth. According to the provided reference, horizontal lightning is a type of cloud-to-cloud lightning. These bolts can extend for significant distances, sometimes hundreds of miles, as the discharge follows an electrical path between the clouds.
Key Characteristics of Horizontal Lightning
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Cloud-to-cloud lightning. |
| Path | Travels horizontally between clouds. |
| Length | Can be very long, potentially hundreds of miles. |
| Ground Impact | Does not reach the ground. |
| Risk to Humans | Minimal as it does not strike the ground |
Why is it Called Horizontal Lightning?
The term "horizontal" is used to describe this type of lightning because the discharge primarily travels parallel to the ground, rather than perpendicularly down to it.
How Does It Form?
Horizontal lightning forms when there is a build-up of electrical charges within or between different cloud systems. When the potential difference between two clouds becomes too great, a lightning discharge occurs, traveling from one cloud to another.
- Charge Buildup: Electrical charges accumulate in different parts of clouds, leading to a potential difference.
- Electrical Discharge: When the difference in charge is significant, a discharge of electricity occurs, forming a long bolt.
- Path of Travel: The discharge travels between clouds instead of the ground, creating the horizontal effect.
Why is it Important to Understand Horizontal Lightning?
While it does not pose as much risk to humans as cloud-to-ground lightning, understanding horizontal lightning is vital for weather forecasting and overall thunderstorm knowledge. Being able to identify and differentiate between horizontal lightning and other types is also useful for scientific research purposes.
In conclusion, horizontal lightning refers to cloud-to-cloud lightning that travels across the sky between clouds. It's characterized by its long, horizontal path, and minimal risk to those on the ground, unlike cloud-to-ground strikes.
