3. Volcanic Eruptions
Another natural occurrence that might set off ball lightning are volcanic explosions. The explosive character of volcanic activity generates a perfect storm of circumstances that might help these enigmatic light spheres to develop. Massive volumes of ash, gasses, and molten lava are expelled from an eruption into the atmosphere, producing a highly charged environment. The strong heat and pressure produced by the eruption can ionize the surrounding air, maybe producing forms reminiscent to plasma. Furthermore, the volcanic plume sometimes consists of electrically conducting particles mixed with gasses, which would be the building pieces of ball lightning. The friction between these particles as they leave the volcano could create static electricity, therefore increasing the probability of unexpected electrical events. Certain scientists have even proposed that the special chemical makeup of volcanic emissions and the often accompanying volcanic lightning could provide the ideal mix for ball lightning development. Although direct observations of ball lightning during volcanic eruptions are rare, the severe conditions found during these events make them an interesting target for research aiming at solving the riddles of this elusive phenomena.
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