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How Volcanic Lightning Is Making the World a Safer Place

Season 2 Episode 5 | 8m 20s

The closely observed Hunga Haʻapai volcano in Tonga erupted in January 2022. The hot plumes of ash they spew into the atmosphere are the most dangerous part of these eruptions, threatening downwind communities and even planes. It turns out these plumes also form volcanic lightning!

Aired: 11/07/21
Extras
New York City is racing to prepare for the true superstorm.
Tornado Alley is shifting — and the new one is deadlier. Here's why.
Why is the Guadalupe River America's deadliest? Science, "Rain Bombs," and Flash Flood Alley.
Something unexpected is changing Antarctica and scientists finally know why.
What if Earth crossed a climate tipping point like Venus once did?
Weathered investigates why civilizations collapse during climate shocks—and how we can avoid it.
Understanding the climate endgame isn’t pessimism. It’s risk management.
Check out this preview of Weathered: After the LA Firestorm, coming to PBS January 7th.
Maiya breaks down new research showing the impacts of accelerated sea level rise.
Maiya explores the giants of Earth’s volcanic past: the Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs).
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New York City is racing to prepare for the true superstorm.
Tornado Alley is shifting — and the new one is deadlier. Here's why.
Why is the Guadalupe River America's deadliest? Science, "Rain Bombs," and Flash Flood Alley.
Something unexpected is changing Antarctica and scientists finally know why.
What if Earth crossed a climate tipping point like Venus once did?
Weathered investigates why civilizations collapse during climate shocks—and how we can avoid it.
Understanding the climate endgame isn’t pessimism. It’s risk management.
Nearly a year after the devastating Los Angeles fires, Maiya May returns to document the recovery.
Maiya breaks down new research showing the impacts of accelerated sea level rise.
Maiya explores the giants of Earth’s volcanic past: the Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs).