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Call Lightning

Conjuration
Level: 3rd-level
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 120 feet
Duration: Up to 10 minutes
Components: V, S

A storm cloud appears in the shape of a cylinder that is 10 feet tall with a 60-foot radius, centered on a point you can see 100 feet directly above you. The spell fails if you can't see a point in the air where the storm cloud could appear (for example, if you are in a room that can't accommodate the cloud). When you cast the spell, choose a point you can see within range. A bolt of lightning flashes down from the cloud to that point. Each creature within 5 feet of that point must make a dexterity saving throw. A creature takes 3d10 lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. On each of your turns until the spell ends, you can use your action to call down lightning in this way again, targeting the same point or a different one. If you are outdoors in stormy conditions when you cast this spell, the spell gives you control over the existing storm instead of creating a new one. Under such conditions, the spell's damage increases by 1d10.

At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 4th or higher level, the damage increases by 1d10 for each slot level above 3rd.

Concentration

Spell Details

School: Conjuration
Level: 3
Ritual: No
Concentration: Yes
Classes: Cleric, Druid
A-Tier Call Lightning is a powerful concentration spell with exceptional damage output and action economy once established, though its outdoor requirement and setup time limit its versatility.

Player Guide

Position the storm cloud before combat begins if possible, or cast it during the first round while enemies are unaware of its threat. Once active, use your action every turn to call down lightning bolts (4d10 damage, Dex save) on different targets, maximizing action efficiency compared to cantrips. The spell's 10-minute duration means it scales dramatically in longer encounters—consider using it against stationary threats or bottlenecked enemies. Be aware of the 100-foot height requirement and plan positioning accordingly, as this spell becomes useless indoors or in enclosed spaces.

DM Tips

Enforce the 100-foot height requirement strictly—many players forget this crucial limitation. Clarify that the caster must use an action each turn to call down a bolt; they cannot move and cast simultaneously without using Quickened Spell or similar features.