Yes, purple lightning is real, although it's less common than other colors.
Understanding Purple Lightning
Purple or lilac-tinted lightning is a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon. Its unique color is often attributed to specific atmospheric conditions.
Causes of Purple Lightning
- High Atmospheric Humidity: A key factor in the creation of purple lightning is high atmospheric humidity. This means the thunderstorm producing the lightning is associated with significant precipitation. The high humidity influences how the light is scattered and perceived by the observer, resulting in the purplish hue. (Reference: 20-Apr-2024)
Comparing Purple to Other Lightning Colors
While purple lightning might appear rare, it's important to note that lightning color varies based on factors like atmospheric composition and the path the electrical discharge takes. Other colors, like yellow (less common and often cooler than other colors), are linked to high dust concentrations.
Conclusion
The existence of purple lightning is confirmed by the influence of high atmospheric humidity on light scattering during a thunderstorm.
