Why can’t we direct lightening to specific spots using tall poles or something similar?

Question

Since lightening causes problems worldwide why can’t we solve the issue using simple metal poles?

In: Earth Science

Answer 1

You can use lightning rods to “catch” lightning. The problem is that it only works in a relatively small radius. So it’s handy if there’s something you want to protect (like a [rocket launch site](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lightning_rod#/media/File:Atlas_V_551_at_Launch_Pad_41.jpg)), but you can’t use them to protect the entire California region from forest fires. You would far too many of them to be feasible.