After dominating rankings for decades, Florida is no longer the official lightning capital of America. According to a new report from AEM's Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN), Oklahoma has officially surpassed the Sunshine State with the highest concentration of lightning - registering 73 lightning strikes per square mile last year.
ENTLN scientists use new technology involving over 1,800 sensors to detect lightning activity in real time across the United States. Sensors measure lighting activity with exceptional coverage and precision to show how new patterns are evolving.
Scientists explained that the shakeup at the top ranking is due in part to a significant shift in weather patterns. Florida experienced a relatively drier than average year in 2025, with most Atlantic hurricanes staying out to sea. This, paired with intense thunderstorm activity in Oklahoma, has shown that the Great Plains are emerging as an increasingly active region for high-impact storms.
With Oklahoma leading the way in lighting flashes per square mile and Florida in second, third and fourth place belong to Louisiana and Kansas, respectively.
When it comes to fatal lightning strikes, however, Florida still leads all states by a sizable margin, according to the National Lightning Safety Council. Since 2006, Florida had 97 deaths followed by Texas (42) and Colorado (27). In 2025, 4 deaths were reported in Florida.
To protect our health and avoid becoming a lightning victim, stay vigilant to local weather alerts. Check the forecast before leaving home, especially during the storm-heavy summer months. June 15 was listed as the "most lightning-intense day of the year" in 2025, with 926,016 flashes.
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