Lightning Ground-Flash Density After Csir (1994)

Deaths from lightning worldwide range between 0.2 and 1.7 per million of population per annum. South Africa, however, is considered to be a country prone to high lightning-related deaths, in which lightning-related deaths occur at 4 times the global average, with a four year period recording 1.5 deaths per million of South Africa urban population and 8.8 for the rural population (Gill, 2006).
Where lightning is identified and recorded, storm patterns are easily detected, and this information assists in up-to-the minute accurate weather "nowcasting". Such storm patterns can move quickly and cause significant damage to life and property in a short space of time. Lightning verification systems are, therefore, useful in discouraging false claims. Information on lightning is also important in the power generating industry, overland transport, aviation and in starting lightning induced fires in grassveld.