The phrase "lightning strikes" refers to when a bolt of electricity from a storm hits the ground or an object, causing a bright flash and loud thunder. Full definition
Know the risk of lightning strikes with our lightning danger maps. (weather.gc.ca)
Many scientists believe ball lightning is a ball of plasma formed when lightning strikes the ground, but the exact mechanism is unclear despite the many theories proposed. (newscientist.com)
Do you know how many times lightning strikes in the world everyday? (religion.blogs.cnn.com)