Dry Lightning Causes Most Destructive California Wildfires

New data could help prevent lightning-caused wildfires in the future for central and northern California.

By Monica Cull
Aug 8, 2022 4:00 PMAug 8, 2022 4:01 PM
lightning
(Credit:Andrei F/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Fire season in California used to rage from May to October. Now, with severe droughts and other environmental impacts due to climate change, California faces wildfire risk year-round. A new study found that dry lighting may be the leading cause of California wildfires. 

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group