Question

why do some lightning strikes hit other cloulds instead of the ground

Answer 1

Cloud-to-ground is the best known and third most common type of lightning. It is the best understood of all forms because it allows for scientific study given it terminates on a physical object, namely the Earth, and lends itself to being measured by instruments. Of the three primary types of lightning, it poses the greatest threat to life and property since it terminates or "strikes" the Earth. Cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning is a lightning discharge between a thundercloud and the ground. It is usually negative in polarity and is usually initiated by a stepped leader moving down from the cloud.

Answer 2

because lightning attracts more to the charged objects, as the clouds have more moisture content , more charge and being closer to the lightning it gets stroked more frequently than the ground. The ground being far and also causes earthing so it is not a common target felt.