From similarity and differences of morphological, biochemical, cellular characteristics, biologist have constructed 'phylogenetic (evolutionary) trees' (who is most closely related to who, analogous to a family tree)
In the United States, lightning routinely kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Tornadoes, hail, and wind gusts get the most attention, but only lightning can strike outside the storm itself. Lightning is the first thunderstorm hazard to arrive and the last to leave.
On average, lightning kills more people per year than tornadoes. Strikes can occur many miles from the base of a thunderstorm, even without rain -- and even with the sun shining! Listening for approaching thunder is a good idea -- unless you are the target of the first flash.