The Vilnius TV Tower, Lithuania’s tallest structure, is struck by lightning about 11 times more often than the surrounding area because of its height, location and lightning protection system, according to Lithuania’s meteorological service.
The finding comes from a 2023 study cited by Gytis Valaika, chief communications specialist at the Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service, after thunderstorms swept across the capital over the weekend, producing dramatic lightning displays and causing widespread damage.
“The tall tower acts as a giant lightning rod,” Valaika said about the 326-metre structure. “Lightning always seeks the most conductive path to the ground. Because the tower stands on a hill, is very tall and has a grounding system, it is struck very frequently.”
He said the tower also provides some protection to nearby areas by intercepting lightning that might otherwise strike surrounding locations, although it does not eliminate the risk entirely.
Valdas Kaminskas, communications director at Lithuania’s state-owned Radio and Television Centre, said the exact number of lightning strikes on the Vilnius TV Tower is not recorded, but the structure has been hit hundreds of times over the years.
