Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
What is a Fulgurite?
Give up?
A fulgurite is often referred to as “petrified lightning.”
When lightning strikes the sand at a temperature of at least 3,270 degrees, the heat melts the silica and fuses the sand into fascinating structures. This takes place within the time frame of one second. The long, slender, hollow glass tubes are below the surface of the sand and can be found by looking for uneven coloring on the sand’s surface where the lightning has entered. The glass structure is usually an irregular shape and can be transparent white, black or tan. They are very delicate in nature and are sometimes used in making jewelry.
The very brittle fulgurites break easily while removing them from the sand. Each fulgurite is different and can have a main branch and then many smaller branches that resemble the actual flash of lightning. Some fulgurites are round and hollow while others are flattened into rough shapes caused by the pressure of the sand.
There are generally two types of fulgurites — sand and rock. Sand are the more common of the two. They have a glassy interior, due to the rapid cooling of the sand after the lightning strikes. Most are one to two inches in diameter. They are also found in Utah’s deserts. The longest fulgurite was found in northern Florida, measuring a little over 4.9 meters in length. Mountain peaks are continually hit by lightning, and that’s where most rock fulgurites are found.
Fulgurites are used by some people as a tool for prayer and meditation. It is said to arouse energy and help one focus.
Fulgurites have been found in the sand dunes along the coast of Lake Michigan here and there, if you’re lucky, as they are a rather rare find. Try your luck at these places:
Before you make a splash in Lake Michigan, check out the water temperatures for beaches from Manistee, Ludington, Pentwater, and Silver Lake.
There’s so much to do in Silver Lake! From hitting the dunes to camping out at the state park — it’s an outdoor adventure for everyone.
The historical Vogue Theatre in Manistee, renovated as a modern-day movie theater, shows current movies, classic films, and family movies.
A magnificent display of color; the Northern Lights can be viewed at the right time of year at the right place in West Michigan!
Take one of the most scenic drives in the nation as you travel across M-22 in West Michigan. A long winding road of adventure awaits!
The Traverse City Opera House has a 700-seat theater which offers a place for quality arts and cultural entertainment.