Lightning Strikes One World Trade Center During Rare Snowstorm in Lower Manhattan

NEW YORK — Multiple bolts of lightning ripped across the snow-filled night sky over Lower Manhattan, striking the spire of One World Trade Center amid a powerful winter storm.

The dramatic strikes illuminated blowing snow and heavy cloud cover as the storm intensified late Tuesday, creating a rare phenomenon known as “thundersnow” — when lightning and thunder occur during a snowstorm.

Video captured from across the Hudson River shows bright flashes hitting the top of the 1,776-foot tower, the tallest building in New York City. The structure is equipped with lightning protection systems designed to safely channel electrical charges into the ground, and no immediate damage or injuries were reported.

Meteorologists say thundersnow is uncommon but can occur in strong winter systems with unstable atmospheric conditions. The storm sweeping through the region brought heavy snowfall, gusting winds and reduced visibility across the city.

Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel as conditions continued to deteriorate overnight.