At first glance it appears as digitally generated image, but it is a volcanic lightning caused by volcanic eruptions.
Volcanic lightning is a rare and striking phenomenon that occurs during some volcanic eruptions. It is a type of electrical discharge that takes place within the ash plume that rises above an erupting volcano.
The exact mechanism that produces volcanic lightning is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the buildup of static electricity within the ash cloud. As the ash particles collide and rub against each other, they can transfer electrons and become electrically charged. This can create a separation of charge within the cloud, with positively charged particles rising to the top and negatively charged particles sinking to the bottom.
Under certain conditions, this separation of charge can create a strong electric field within the cloud, which can lead to the formation of lightning. Lightning is produced when the electric field becomes strong enough to ionize the air molecules within the cloud, causing them to emit photons of light.
Volcanic lightning can take on a variety of forms, from small, isolated sparks to large, branching bolts that extend for several meters. It is most commonly observed during eruptions that produce a large amount of ash, such as explosive eruptions or pyroclastic flows.
Despite its dramatic appearance, volcanic lightning is not typically dangerous to people on the ground, as it is usually confined to the ash plume above the volcano. However, it can pose a hazard to aircraft that fly through or near the plume, as the electrical discharges can interfere with electronic equipment and navigation systems.
