strong storm summer: almost 20,000 flashes in NRW 2024!

in 2024 North Rhine-Westphalia recorded a remarkable number of almost 20,000 lightning strikes. According to the Aldis/Blids lightning information service, exactly 19,734 hit in the state, which corresponds to about a tenth of the nationwide registered flashes. This number is particularly striking because it has been the highest rates in NRW since 2018.

The historical high of the past two decades was reached in 2006 when there were a total of 53,866 lightning strikes. The comparison of these values ​​illustrates that lightning strikes in NRW are subject to a certain cycles and can accumulate greatly in certain years. Weather conditions, such as increased air humidity and temperature differences, play a crucial role in the development of thunderstorms and thus also in the frequency of lightning strikes.

The increase in lightning strikes can not only reflect meteorological factors, but also possible changes in the climate system. Experts warn that with the rising global average temperature, more extreme weather events, including thunderstorms, could increase. This could be new challenges for the regions in NRW, especially with regard to damage prevention and emergency management.

In summary, it should be noted that the high flash numbers in North Rhine-Westphalia are not only due to local weather phenomena, but are also part of a larger climate trend. The relevance of such data is the need for the population and the authorities to better prepare for extreme weather conditions. Increased sensitization and infrastructure improvements could be crucial to minimize possible dangers.