Based on previous studies on lightning activity in tropical cyclones (TC), this paper firstly summarizes the characteristics of TC lightning distribution, the indications of eyewall lightning outbreak on TC intensity and path, and the relationship between lightning activity and convective structure in the outer rainbands. Secondly, the formation and mechanism of TC lightning are summarized from the perspective of dynamics and microphysics. Finally, two key factors that affect the application of lightning data in TC monitoring and forecasting are discussed, and the future research contents are prospected. Using parameters of lightning characteristics (e.g. flash type, flash area, flash duration, flash radiation) obtained by both ground-based and space-based lightning detection systems, a more clear and representative relationship between lightning activity and TC intensity change will be established. The comprehensive observation study on the strong convection process of typhoon landing by using the three-dimensional lightning location system in coastal areas and the ground-based dual-polarization radar will be helpful to promote the application of lightning observation data in the monitoring, waming and data assimilation of meso-scale strong convective activity in typhoons.