Unusual Arctic thunderstorms spark rare lightning strikes in Northern Alaska

Thunderstorms in NorthernAlaskaover sea ice on Mondaysparked rare lightning strikes.

The Washington Post reported lightning strikes occurred north of Prudhoe Bay, directly over sea ice, a phenomenon that occurs once or twice a decade.

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Scientists have warned thatAlaskacould see an increase of thunderstorms, floods, landslides and wildfires if current climate trends continue.

Two studies suggest the rapidly warming U.S. state could see triple the number of thunderstorms by the end of this century.

As air temperatures rise, the atmosphere holds more moisture and can also cause more rapid updrafts - two key factors in lightning.

Alaskais also affected by the rapid retreat of Arctic sea ice, which is exposing more open water nearby, allowing more water vapour to enter the air, the scientists explain in the two related papers published in the journal Climate Dynamics.

The link between climate change and lightning is still being investigated. Research published a study in 2014 in the Journal Science suggests there is roughly 12% more lightning for every 1 degree Celsius of atmospheric warming above preindustrial temperatures.

With increased thunderstorms, the new research projects an increase in extreme rainfall by 37% by 2100.