According to the Maltese Islands Weather page, at around 5:20 AM two nights ago, the island of Gozo experienced a rare and powerful positive lightning strike in the Sanap area. This wasn't just any ordinary lightning strike — it was an intense 'bolt from the blue', a phenomenon that happens when lightning strikes far outside the storm itself, catching everyone off guard.

Unlike the more common ‘negative’ lightning that we typically see during storms, positive lightning is much more dangerous. These bolts can carry up to a staggering one billion volts — ten times more than the usual lightning strike. This extreme power originates in the upper areas of violent thunderstorms, and it requires a unique electrical charge to reach the ground from such high altitudes. Positive lightning is rare, making up less than 5% of all lightning strikes.

What makes positive lightning even more ominous is how it behaves. It doesn’t flash repeatedly like typical lightning but rather delivers a single, powerful flash followed by an explosive thunderclap that sounds like a bomb going off. Those near the strike have also reported a distinct odour lingering in the air after the lightning event.

As rare as it is, this event serves as a stark reminder of the incredible power of nature. Next time you hear a distant thunderclap, it might be a positive lightning bolt making its way from clear skies!

Did you hear the thunder earlier this week?