In a first, researchers film treetops glowing during thunderstorms

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery by observing and measuring weak electrical discharges, known as coronae, on trees during thunderstorms. This phenomenon has been documented for the first time in nature, specifically on the branches of various tree species along the U.S. East Coast during the summer of 2024. The study indicates that thunderstorms may create a faint blue glow across entire tree canopies, although this scintillating effect is too subtle for the human eye to perceive. The electrical discharges, or coronae, are described as near-invisible sparkles that occur in the presence of thunderstorms. Prior to this research, it was understood that thunderstorms could generate weak electrical discharges on plants, but such occurrences had never been directly observed outdoors. This new finding sheds light on the interactions between electrical fields and natural environments during storm events. The implications of this research extend to our understanding of atmospheric electricity and its effects on ecosystems. The ability to film and document these electrical phenomena opens new avenues for studying the relationship between weather patterns and plant life. The study highlights the intricate dynamics of thunderstorms and their potential to influence the natural world in ways that have not been fully appreciated until now.