00:00New research shows that air pollution has now been linked to an increase in the frequency of lightning in thunderstorms.
00:06Researchers from James Madison University looked at data from more than 500,000 thunderstorms across Washington, D.C. and Kansas City over the course of 12 years
00:17and found that having more fine particles in the air is broadly linked to a higher number of lightning strikes.
00:23One of the study's researchers said, quote, it looks like no matter where you go in the world, urban pollution is capable of enhancing thunderstorms and lightning.
00:33According to the study, the day of the week was important to determine when a thunderstorm would happen as well.
00:39Thunderstorms were common in both locations on Thursdays.
00:42Monday was the quietest day for thunderstorms in Washington, D.C., while it was Friday for Kansas City.
00:48Experts say this new research gives us a greater understanding of how fluctuations in air pollution might continue to reshape meteorological patterns.
