Heat lightning is a term used to describe the faint flashes of lightning on the horizon or other clouds from distant thunderstorms that do not appear to have accompanying sounds of thunder. However, this term is a misnomer, as the actual phenomenon that is sometimes called heat lightning is simply cloud-to-ground lightning that occurs very far away, with thunder that dissipates before it reaches the observer. Here are some key points about heat lightning:

• Heat lightning is not a specific type of lightning, but rather the light produced by a distant thunderstorm.

• The faint flash seen by the observer is light being reflected off higher-level clouds, as mountains, hills, trees, or the curvature of the earth prevent the observer from seeing the actual lightning flash.

• The sound of thunder can only be heard for about 10 miles from a flash, so if the thunder does not reach the observer, it does not mean that the lightning is not dangerous.

• All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous, and lightning strikes outside the area of heavy rain and may strike as far as 10 miles from any rainfall.

• If you can hear thunder, you are in danger, and there is no such thing as "heat lightning".

• Lightning safety is important, and the most effective lightning safety action can be found in avoiding the lightning threat altogether.

In summary, heat lightning is not a specific type of lightning, but rather the light produced by a distant thunderstorm, and it is important to remember that all thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. If you can hear thunder, you are in danger, and it is important to have a lightning safety plan and avoid the lightning threat altogether.