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Nature creates spectacles that look like movie visual effects, but they’re scientifically documented weather phenomena. Here are 5 of them.
1. Volcanic lightning is a real thing
During intense volcanic eruptions, friction between ash particles and gases can generate enough electrical charge to create lightning inside the ash cloud itself — a rare phenomenon called a “dirty thunderstorm.”
2. Animal rain is a documented phenomenon
Tornadoes and strong winds over bodies of water can suck up small fish or frogs and carry them short distances, causing them to “rain down” elsewhere — documented cases exist across multiple countries.
3. There are clouds shaped like “flying saucers”
Lenticular clouds form when moist air passes over obstacles like mountains, creating smooth, oval shapes that have even sparked UFO sighting reports.
4. Some places get “fire tornadoes”
Extremely intense wildfires can generate their own weather system, including spinning fire vortices — a phenomenon known as a firenado, capable of producing extremely strong winds.
5. The “Midnight Sun” really happens in some regions
In areas near the poles, during summer, the sun can stay visible 24 hours a day for weeks at a time — a natural phenomenon caused by the tilt of Earth’s axis.
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