Thunderstorms provide summer water, cool the earth, and clean the air. They also balance the Earth's electricity and provide fertilizer. Both lightning and static electricity involve electrons that travel from a negative to a positive area liberating energy. Thunder is the sound of air expanding as the temperature increases due to the lightning bolt splitting the air. A sharp crack.
Lightning travels at the speed of light which is a million times faster.
Small clouds can generate electricity. Electricity can form - without ice crystals. There are cases of positive charges, and scientists can't explain it. Accept reasonable answers, such as meeting the energy needs of cities, or an alternative to fossil fuel. Answers in Genesis Ministries International.