Who would have thought this could be a possibility?  In a sense barns have been using this technology on a small level so why not see if we can use it for the greater good:

Now Canadian scientists have found a way of directing a lightning arc in the laboratory. They used the Advanced Laser Light Source facility to channel man-made lightning bolts around objects.

The research, by the National Institute of Scientific Research and published in the journal Science Advances, could have implications for industry, where high-voltage arcs are used in a variety of applications.

This video is also interesting in that it examines weather patterns going forward.  So what can we do if this is right?  Should we get involved in predictions and preparations and change our habits?  Or is this incorrect and just theory?

thanks to dailymail.co.uk for the great info