The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has confirmed a new world record for the longest lightning flash ever recorded. A 515-mile (829km) flash, spanning from east Texas to near Kansas City, Missouri, was detected on October 22, 2017. This surpasses the previous record of 768km. Advances in space-based mapping technology enabled the detection of this exceptionally long flash, highlighting the limitations of previous ground-based sensors. The WMO emphasizes the importance of seeking shelter during thunderstorms due to lightning's extensive reach.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.