The cloud-to-ground portion of this stroke followed a remarkably unwavering path along the line of sight, with one very apparent exception. Whatever compelled the step leader that preceded the visible flash to jump abruptly sideways and stay on that path for awhile, it did not appear to be outflow. Fortunately the bolt wasn’t several miles closer and in position to strike the oil storage tanks. Most of those containers are well grounded, but an observer should not take a chance on being too close to one that isn’t!
3 SSW Altus, OK (26 April 14) Looking NW
34.5953, -99.3516