Houdini noob here, enjoying the Learning Curve

I saw this old video of Houdini 15 sneak peak and at 2m28s there is a Shot of Plasma being created and a Blast.
https://vimeo.com/135607909 [vimeo.com]
I am about to start with Particles and thought It would be good learning to try this. Can someone guide me how the PLasma spikes are done?
At the start they all go in and then it explodes, also the light streaks going in at beginning are a comp effect?
Please if someone can give a hint or push in right directon.
Thanks.
