11. Arctic and Antarctic Storms: Polar Blue Flashes
Although polar areas are less likely to get thunderstorms, when they do arise they can provide some of the most striking displays of blue lightning. The very dry and frigid air typical of Arctic and Antarctic settings provide perfect circumstances for blue lightning to be seen. Thunderstorms are growing more often in these polar areas as global climate patterns change, thereby providing more chances to see this event. Usually connected with convective activity over rather warmer open water areas, like leads in sea ice, the blue lightning in polar storms is linked. The blue flashes against the white snow and ice produce an amazing and lovely show. Particularly interested in how the shifting temperature might be influencing the frequency and severity of polar lightning are scientists examining these phenomena. In some of the most sensitive climate zones on Earth, the occurrence of blue lightning not only offers an amazing visual spectacle but also acts as a clue of atmospheric changes.