What is heat lightning?

Heat lightning is a term used to describe the phenomenon of a lightning flash appearing to be without accompanying thunder during a heat wave. It occurs when lightning from a distant thunderstorm is too far away for the sound of thunder to be heard, but the flash of lightning can still be seen. This phenomenon is most common in the summer months when the heat and humidity create ideal conditions for thunderstorms to develop.

Although heat lightning is often associated with warm weather, it is not caused by heat. It is actually a result of distant thunderstorms producing lightning that is visible from far away due to specific atmospheric conditions. Heat lightning poses no direct threat to individuals as the storm is too far away to cause harm, but it is still important to seek shelter during a thunderstorm to avoid the dangers of being struck by lightning.