[Physics] Why do power lines buzz more when it is low-humidity outside

electricitywater

I have observed that the power lines buzz louder when there is less moisture in the air.

Why is this?

If it will help the lines are located on the foot hills of a nearby mountain.

Best Answer

In 1999, the president of the IEEE Power Engineering Society, Robert Dent, noted that:

"The degree or intensity of the corona discharge and the resulting audible noise are affected by the condition of the air--that is, by humidity, air density, wind and water in the form of rain, drizzle and fog. Water increases the conductivity of the air and so increases the intensity of the discharge [..] corona discharges can be produced by water droplets, fog and snow.". (Ref)