Scientists have determined the processes which create spectacular lightning strikes during an eruption.
According to reports, several dozen individuals have been killed by lightning strikes in just two days.
The government agency has unveiled plans for a futuristic unmanned vehicle known as 'LightningStrike'.
Footage recorded at the beginning of the year seems to show lightning hitting a glowing orb in the sky.
A strange light filmed over the Australian capital is thought to have been a rare case of ball lightning.
High school student Macie Martinez was struck by a bolt of lightning while standing inside her kitchen.
A region at the mouth of a river in Venezuela sees more lightning strikes than anywhere else on Earth.
Five members of the same family were struck by a bolt from the blue while out in their garden.
Chinese researchers have managed to observe and film natural ball lightning for the first time.
Rodeo clown Casey Wagner got more than he bargained for when he attended a driving event in Texas.
A Georgia resident caught a strange object on camera while filming her property after a lightning storm.
Scientists are experimenting with laser pulses that can create clouds and influence the weather.
A woman in Louisiana had been queuing with groceries when she was hit by a bolt from the blue.
A man who has been struck by lighting four times has been buried up to his neck in an effort to cure him.
New research has suggested that you are more likely to suffer a headache near to lightning strikes.
A driver was filming from his car the moment an SUV on the road ahead was hit by a bolt of lightning.
The military are experimenting with a laser-guided weapon that can fire bolts of lightning at targets.
Bricklayer Justin Feber was on his lunch break when he was struck dead by a bolt from the blue.
A faithful dog dragged his owner, the Mayor of Redruth, all the way home after he was hit by lightning.
Sometimes lightning can strike when we least expect it - even when there is a clear blue sky.