Fact Check: "Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice"
What We Know
The claim that "lightning never strikes the same place twice" is a widely held myth. In reality, lightning can and often does strike the same location multiple times. According to the CDC, lightning frequently strikes tall, isolated objects, such as the Empire State Building, which is hit approximately 23 times a year. This phenomenon occurs because lightning is attracted to tall structures and can strike them repeatedly during storms.
Further supporting this, the National Weather Service explicitly states that lightning often strikes the same place repeatedly, especially if that place is a tall and pointy object. This is corroborated by various scientific studies and observations, indicating that the notion of lightning avoiding the same spot is a misconception.
Analysis
The evidence overwhelmingly supports the conclusion that lightning can strike the same location multiple times. The sources referenced, including the CDC and the National Weather Service, are credible and reliable, as they are produced by authoritative organizations focused on public health and safety. These sources provide factual information based on scientific understanding and observations of lightning behavior.
Moreover, the NASA Spinoff article discusses how technology developed to track lightning strikes has shown that certain areas, particularly those with tall structures, are prone to repeated strikes. This further emphasizes the validity of the claim that lightning can strike the same place more than once.
While some sources may present anecdotal evidence or cultural interpretations of the phrase "lightning never strikes the same place twice," these do not hold up against the scientific consensus. The myth likely persists due to its use as a metaphor in language, rather than any factual basis.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that "lightning never strikes the same place twice" is false. Scientific evidence and authoritative sources confirm that lightning can and does strike the same location multiple times, particularly if that location is a tall, isolated structure. The persistence of this myth can be attributed to its metaphorical use in language rather than its factual accuracy.
Sources
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lightning
- Lightning Myths and Facts
- Lightning Often Strikes Twice
- 5 Striking Facts Versus Myths About Lightning You Should Know
- Lightning Safety: 10 Myths—and the Facts
- Can Lightning Strike the Same Place Twice?
- Can Lightning Strike in the Same Place Twice?
- Lightning Never Strikes Twice – Or Does It?
