Volcanic Lightning: Natures Most Spectacular Show

Volcanic lightning occurs when ash particles collide and generate static electricity, similar to rubbing a balloon on your hair but at massive scale. It was first documented by Pliny the Younger during the 79 AD eruption of Vesuvius. The 2022 Hunga Tonga eruption produced the most intense lightning ever recorded with 2,600 flashes per minute.

Not all eruptions produce lightning. The 2021 eruption of Cumbre Vieja in La Palma produced spectacular lightning displays. Scientists study it to understand both volcanoes and atmospheric electricity..