Could St. Elmo's Fire Be Used to Predict Lightning Strikes?

💡 The Answer

• St. Elmo's fire indicates a strong electric field, often preceding a lightning strike in the same area.
• Observing the glow on tall objects can serve as a warning that lightning is imminent nearby.
• Meteorologists use electric field mills to measure the buildup that causes St. Elmo's fire.
• However, the phenomenon is not a reliable predictor by itself because lightning may not follow every corona event.