16 World-Famous Lightning Landmarks: A Must-Visit Pilgrimage

CircuitSkies Updated: 2025-07-23

4. Johannesburg, South Africa

Renowned not only for its vast sprawl and rich history but also for its remarkable lightning activity, Johannesburg is the biggest metropolis and economic powerhouse in South Africa. With an average of 80–100 lightning strikes per square kilometre yearly, the city suffers among of the highest lightning strike densities worldwide. Attracting storm chasers and meteorologists from all around the world, this phenomena has made Johannesburg among the most famous lightning hotspots on Earth.
Johannesburg's geographical and atmospheric circumstances are mostly responsible for the great lightning activity there. Perched on the Highveld plateau at 1,653 meters (5,751 feet), the city's high height and the warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean provide ideal circumstances for thunderstorm development. Usually occurring in the summer, from November to February, the lightning season peaks when amazing electrical storms nearly daily brighten the metropolitan skyline.
The way Johannesburg's lightning contrasts with the metropolitan setting makes it very intriguing. Countless pictures and videos have caught the hypnotic display created by lightning bolts lighting the skyscrapers and vast suburbs. This peculiar mix of urban surroundings and natural event reminds us strongly of the might of nature even in the middle of a busy city. The summer thunderstorms offer both inhabitants and guests an amazing show that has grown to define the essence of the city.