Interpreting Resistivity from Lightning Strikes

But as geoscientists we know that the earth is not uniform, and in particular that its electrical properties are not uniform. Electrical resistivity variations are the most fundamental property measured in well logging, and these resistivity variations are used (along with other measurements) to identify lithology, porosity, and pore fluid composition. Surely the same variations in resistivity will affect lightning strike characteristics and location. To put it into perspective, a single typical lightning stroke dissipates energy of 100-150 kWh – three to eight days electricity consumption for the average U.S. household – with peak currents measured in kiloamperes.