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NatureSurprise 5/5Difficulty 4/5Reviewed on September 14, 2026

Volcanic lightning is a rare phenomenon observed only on Mount Etna.

Why it is true

Volcanic lightning, also called dirty thunderstorms, occurs in many volcanic eruptions around the world. It is caused by friction between ash and gases that creates electrical charges. It can be seen on volcanoes such as Etna, Sakurajima and Eyjafjallajokull.

Source: USGS

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