Thunderstorm Ranking 2025: Where Lightning Strikes Most Often

Every year, thunderstorms disrupt the lives of millions around the globe. Lightning, torrential rain, and strong winds cause infrastructure damage, transport delays, and increased risks for residents and travelers alike. Knowing which regions are prone to severe weather helps people plan their activities and travel more safely.

According to the Turbli thunderstorm ranking published in March 2025, the small island nation of Palau topped the global list, with 65% of its territory under thunderclouds. This is due to Palau’s equatorial climate, where intense humidity and high temperatures create ideal conditions for storm formation.

Top 5 Stormiest Countries

Palau – 65% coverage

Solomon Islands – 63%

Indonesia – 51%

Fiji – 51%

Vanuatu – 51%

These Pacific nations frequently face strong convection over warm ocean waters, leading to frequent thunderstorms and even tropical cyclones.

South America & the Equator

Countries like Ecuador, Peru, and the Galápagos Islands are also in the top 10. High humidity and elevation changes in the Andes mountains make Peru especially vulnerable to intense storms.

Other storm-prone regions in the top 20 include:

Micronesia

Malaysia

Burundi

Colombia

Tanzania

Philippines

Brazil

Liberia

Madagascar

Mid-Range and Low-Risk Zones

Maldives: 38th place – 18% coverage

Argentina: 42nd – 12%

Albania: 52nd – 9%

Thailand, Spain, and Italy: all ~6%

Turkey, USA, Georgia, Armenia, Bulgaria: ~3%

France, Switzerland, Japan, India, China: ~2%

Countries with near-zero storm activity include:

Sweden

Belgium

Denmark

Lithuania (last place)

Thunderstorm Activity Over Oceans

Pacific Ocean: Highest (13%), especially the southern parts

Indian Ocean: 11%, especially near the Bay of Bengal

Atlantic (North): Lower coverage (6–10%)

Arctic and Southern Oceans: No thunderstorms observed in March

Conclusion

The Turbli Thunderstorm Ranking clearly shows that tropical and island nations remain the most affected by storm activity. This has implications for aviation, shipping, agriculture, and tourism planning. Monitoring storm-prone areas can help authorities mitigate weather-related risks and allow travelers to prepare for unpredictable weather.