Elmsfeuer: A Rare Weather Phenomenon Observed in Canton Ticino

Elmsfeuer Captivates Canton Ticino

In the night from Sunday to early Monday morning, intense thunderstorms with heavy rain and hail swept through the southern slopes of the Alps. During this unusual weather event, a rare phenomenon known as Elmsfeuer was observed at the Matro weather station in Ticino. This spectacle appeared as small, bluish-purple flames at the station's wind sensor, perched at 2,172 meters above sea level, as reported by Meteo Switzerland.

How Elmsfeuer Occurs

The Elmsfeuer phenomenon arises from a significant voltage difference between the ground and the air, which can occur during stormy weather, like that seen on the recent night. These discharges appear as tufted light manifestations a few centimeters long, typically occurring at sharp, exposed metal objects like ship masts, church towers, or summit crosses.

Ideal Conditions for Observation

The Matro weather station, located where the Bleniotal branches off from the Leventina, provided the perfect conditions for this rare occurrence. While Elmsfeuer can theoretically appear on the tips of human fingers or hands under the right conditions, it is extremely rare since it requires a very high electric field strength. People are seldom in situations where these conditions can be met.

A Historical Perspective

The name Elmsfeuer or Saint Elmo's Fire derives from Saint Erasmus of Antioch, also known as St. Elmo in the Middle Ages. Erasmus is the patron saint of sailors. The phenomenon has frequently been observed by seafarers at sea, especially on the tips of ship masts during stormy conditions. Sailors often interpreted the appearance of Elmsfeuer as a good omen, signaling the protective watch of Saint Elmo against impending storms and suggesting they would safely navigate through tempestuous weather.