What atmospheric condition could cause lightning to appear red?

Question

I saw this yesterday during an Az monsoon... never seen it before and was wondering what might cause such a thing?

Satan?

jk

Answer 1

a few years ago i saw pink, the weather man said it was heat lightning

Answer 2

Hello Jamus,

So nice to see you on YA again.  You ask the most interesting questions.  Had to look this up, won't act like I am a weather expert.

This type of lightning is called "Red Sprite". It strikes between the tops of severe thunderstorms and the lower ionosphere. It looks like a big red sun with light blue rays coming out of it. It has been associated with very powerful "Atmospheric Gamma Ray Bursts" which is when lightning strikes give off nuclear radiation.  Cool, I learned something new today.  :)

Answer 3

The lightning is initially white in color.  There must have been some sort of dust, smoke or other aerosol in the atmosphere between you and the lightning which caused the redder colors to reach you more than the rest.