Catatumbo lightning is a meteorological phenomenon specific to the Catatumbo River area at Lake Maracaibo in Venzuela.
- The lightning occurs when a mass of storm clouds form at a high altitude over the lake, creating lightning storms that are shockingly frequent and intense, occurring for about 140 to 160 nights a year, with flashes often visible seven to 10 hours per night.
- With an area of over 13,000 sq km, Lake Maracaibo is generally considered the largest lake in South America, although by some estimates it should be considered an inlet of the Caribbean Sea since much of its water is brought in by its direct connection to the ocean.
- Lake Maracaibo is notable for its oil-rich basin, which has made it a central hub for the Venezuelan oil industry.
- The lake has been a source of wealth due to its petroleum reserves, but this has also led to significant pollution problems.
