In the world, trees are dying en masse: scientists have identified an unexpected factor

Scientists from the Technical University of Munich have discovered that lightning poses a serious threat to forests. They claim that approximately 320 million trees die each year due to lightning strikes. This information was obtained through research utilizing global data on thunderstorms and vegetation.

The published calculations showed that lightning can destroy about 320 million trees each year, not accounting for losses from wildfires. As a result of the destruction of trees, a large amount of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, affecting the climate. Scientists emphasize that lightning should be considered as an important ecological factor in climate and forest research. Given climate change, the intensity of thunderstorms may only increase in the future.

Thus, the research indicates that lightning can have a serious impact on forest ecosystems, causing significant tree loss and negative consequences for the climate. This information underscores the need for further research and consideration of lightning as an important factor in nature conservation amid climate change.