10 Famous Blue Lightning Strike Events in History, with the 5th Still Unexplained!

7. The Catatumbo Lightning Phenomenon

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Though not a single occurrence, the Catatumbo lightning in Venezuela is among the most frequent and amazing blue lightning displays seen worldwide. Over the mouth of the Catatumbo River, this unusual meteorological occurrence takes place when it empties into Lake Maracaibo. The area has long been well-known for its virtually nightly lightning storms, which may last up to 10 hours at a stretch and generate up to 280 flashes every hour. The Catatumbo lightning is especially remarkable because of its clearly blue colour, which is said to be brought about by the high methane concentration in the local atmosphere. Consistent throughout thousands of years, the phenomena has earned its nickname "The Everlasting Storm." Extensive research on the Catatumbo lightning by scientists aims to clarify the special meteorological circumstances generating this continuous electrical activity. Apart from being a main tourist destination, Catatumbo's blue lightning has become a natural laboratory for scientists investigating atmospheric electricity and climatic trends.