When lightning strikes tall buildings

We're told lightning strikes the tallest object.

That's often true. What we don't see is how frequently lightning strikes some of the tallest buildings in our cityscapes.

From the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:

According to the National Weather Service, the Empire State Building is hit by lightning an average of 25 times per year. In one storm, it was hit eight times in 24 minutes.

There's been some great photography lately from New York City and Chicago as storms rolled through with vivid lighting strikes on skyscrapers. Check out this strike on One World Trade Center from July 2.

Here's another great shot of a blot hitting the Willis Tower (former Sears Tower) in Chicago.

• Respect lightning: how it works, what you need to know

• Who gets struck by lightning?

• Lightning in the wilderness: How to minimize the danger

Lightning is often lazy, taking the easiest route to the ground. Trees and root systems can conduct the charge. That's why tall trees are not your best option for shelter during a lightning storms.