The investigation and appraisal methods of disasters caused by lightning are discussed. On the basis of experiences from lightning disaster investigation and appraisal practice, the basic principles,concrete procedures, the particular content of insitu investigation, the requirements for records and reports, and archiving information concerning the investigation and appraisal of lightning disasters are described in detail. There are three kinds of thunderstruck scenes: original, altered and imitative. Destruction of lightning can be divided into two types: direct and indirect, and there are seven kinds of destructive modes. The methods for identifying lightning disasters in disaster appraisal and issues needing attention are introduced.