The Lightning Release (雷遁, Raiton, English TV: Lightning Style) techniques are jutsu that convert the user's chakra into electricity. Because of this they require great deal of chakra to perform. Lightning Release techniques are fast-moving, easily able to pierce matter, and tend to numb the target. It seems to be common of Kumogakure ninja. Lightning techniques are strong against Earth Release and are weakened by Wind Release.
The two best known Lightning Release techniques in Konoha are the Chidori and Lightning Blade created by Kakashi Hatake who is the most prominent user of Lightning Release techniques in Konohagakure. Most lightning attacks are quick, yet powerful bolts of lightning or chakra-generated lightning from the user's body. Lightning techniques are strong against Earth Release and are weakened by Wind Release. Most lightning techniques are effective, but the stronger lightning attacks take up great amounts of chakra and can only be used a certain amount of time in a day.
Kumogakure shinobi usually use the Lightning Release.