St. Elmo's Fire is a weather phenomenon that occurs when a strong electric field ionizes the air around a pointed object, such as a ship's mast or a church steeple. This ionization creates a visible blue or violet glow, often accompanied by a hissing or buzzing sound. It is commonly seen during thunderstorms and is sometimes mistaken for lightning. Historically, sailors viewed St. Elmo's Fire as a good omen, believing it to be a sign of protection from storms. The phenomenon is named after St. Erasmus of Formia, also known as St. Elmo, who is the patron saint of sailors.