The storms form when the moon is closest to Jupiter. The interaction of Ganymede's weak magnetic field with Jupiter's powerful magnetic field can create electrical discharges and lightning, which can heat the atmosphere and drive winds. These winds can reach speeds of over 100 kilometers per hour and cause visible clouds to form.
Ganymede's storms are much smaller and less frequent than those on Earth or Jupiter. They are also more localized, occurring mainly near the moon's poles. However, they provide evidence that Ganymede is a dynamic world with an active atmosphere.