Nothing more romantic than a discharge of energy that allows the atmosphere to restore electrostatic balance, lightning nonetheless thrills us, frightens us and holds us spellbound. As the National Weather Service draws our attention to this powerful phenomenon, TIME’s photo editors offer a selection of stunning images showcasing a powerful force that kills around 50 people in the US each year.
Bolts From the Blue: The Beauty of Lightning
Scott Olson / Getty Images
Lightning strikes the Willis Tower in downtown on June 12, 2013 in Chicago.
