Lightning activity level


Lightning activity level is a scale that describes degrees and types of lightning activity. Values are labeled 1–6.
LevelDescription
1No thunderstorms
2Isolated thunderstorms.
Lightning is very infrequent, 1–5 cloud-to-ground strikes in a five-minute period.
3Widely scattered thunderstorms.
Lightning is infrequent, 6–10 cloud-to-ground strikes in a five-minute period.
4Scattered thunderstorms.
Lightning is frequent, 11–15 cloud-to-ground strikes in a 5-minute period.
5Numerous thunderstorms.
Lightning is frequent and intense, greater than 15 cloud-to-ground strikes in a five-minute period.
6Dry lightning.
This type of lightning has the potential for starting fires, and is normally highlighted in fire weather forecasts with a red flag warning.