Which lake is known for experiencing the highest frequency of lightning strikes in the world?

Lake Maracaibo, located in Venezuela, is famous for its unique weather phenomenon that results in the highest frequency of lightning strikes in the world. The region experiences a meteorological occurrence known as “Catatumbo Lightning,” where warm, moist air from the Caribbean meets the cooler air over the Andes mountains. This interaction produces an extraordinary amount of thunderstorms that can occur for up to 260 nights a year, with up to 28 lightning strikes per minute at peak times.

The geographical features surrounding Lake Maracaibo, including its location in a low-lying basin and its proximity to mountains, play a crucial role in maintaining the conditions that lead to such frequent thunderstorms. These characteristics make Lake Maracaibo not just notable for its size or beauty but specifically recognized for its intense and unique electrical activity, distinguishing it from other lakes around the world.