Volcanic lightning
Why in news?
In November 2025, volcanic lightning is emphasized for its importance in eruption monitoring and aviation safety, due to the high water content in volcanic plumes and the electrical activity they generate.
About
- Volcanic lightning is an electrical discharge phenomenon caused by volcanic eruptions, rather than ordinary thunderstorms, and is produced by particle collisions within the volcanic plume that generate static electricity.
- Water content within volcanic plumes can be greater than that in thunderstorms, contributing to more intense lightning activity.
- The height and temperature of the volcanic plume influence lightning formation—taller, colder plumes enhance ice charging and electrical activity.
Key Facts
- Volcanic lightning typically occurs during the early stages of a volcanic eruption, forming powerful barrages of lightning within ash clouds and eruption plumes.
- The main cause is the collision and friction between volcanic ash particles, rock fragments, and sometimes ice within the plume, which builds up static electricity and leads to lightning flashes.
There are different charging mechanisms:
- Frictional charging (triboelectric): Collisions of ash and rock fragments generate static charges.
- Ice charging: In plumes rising above freezing levels or involving water-magma interactions, ice crystals can contribute to charge separation, similar to thunderstorms.
- Fractoemission: The breaking apart of rock particles generates charge, especially near the vent.
- Radioactive charging: Naturally occurring radioisotopes in rock fragments may play a role in charge buildup.
Not all volcanic eruptions produce lightning; the phenomenon is more common in eruptions with vigorous, particle-rich plumes and extensive water involvement.
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