Rare Red Sprites Lightning Captured Over New Zealand Skies

Two distinct rare atmospheric phenomena have been recently captured by photographers. In Arizona, storm chasers face challenges capturing pulse storms, which are brief and unpredictable thunderstorm events that cycle rapidly, making it difficult to photograph artistic images of tornadoes or related storms. One storm chaser reflected on the difficulties and the obsession with storms since childhood, highlighting the chaotic nature of these monsoon storms in the desert. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, a trio of photographers captured the elusive red sprites, a rare form of red lightning that occurs high above thunderstorms and lasts only milliseconds, producing ethereal shapes like jellyfish or columns. The photographers described the experience as surreal and unforgettable, emphasizing the rarity and technical difficulty of capturing these fleeting electrical discharges. Both stories highlight the blend of luck, skill, and persistence required to document rare and spectacular natural weather phenomena.