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Oklahoma Becomes U.S. Lightning Capital; Florida Reports Fatalities

1/6/2026

47 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Oklahoma became the U.S. lightning capital, recording 73 flashes per square mile, according to AEM.
Kay County led Oklahoma with 123.4 flashes per square mile.
Florida remained the state with the highest lightning fatalities in 2025, reporting four deaths.
Brad Sussman, a former Florida meteorologist who survived a lightning strike during his move to Ohio, now teaches children about lightning safety.

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Story summary

In 2025, Oklahoma became the U.S. lightning capital, recording 73 flashes per square mile, according to AEM.
Kay County led Oklahoma with 123.4 flashes per square mile.
Florida remained the state with the highest lightning fatalities in 2025, reporting four deaths.
Brad Sussman, a former Florida meteorologist who survived a lightning strike during his move to Ohio, now teaches children about lightning safety.