The phenomenon of lightning has been an endless source of inspiration and fear in mythology, ancient culture, literature and film over the centuries. Its awesome power and ability to illuminate the night sky have led civilisations to attribute mystical and divine meanings to it before they knew the physics behind this atmospheric phenomenon. From the gods of thunder in mythology to its symbolism in classical and contemporary literature, lightning has left an indelible mark on the human imagination.

Worldwide thunderstorm statistics 2023: 2,102,170,206 atmospheric lightning strikes were recorded. The country with the highest density of lightning strikes is Singapore, with 160 strikes per square kilometre.