How Big Is A Lightning Bolt?

The average lightning bolt measures about an inch wide and five miles long. But the longest bolt ever recorded occurred in the Dallas area, and crossed an impressive 118 miles. The temperature of lightning can reach around 50,000° F. The electricity in a single bolt can reach 200 million volts.

Key Facts In This Video

  1. The hottest thing on Earth is lightning. 00:01

  2. Shockwaves from lightning bolts are created due to the intense heat of the lightning. 01:20

  3. Watch slow-motion footage of a miniature tree getting hit with artificial lightning: 04:09

Written by Curiosity Staff June 11, 2015
