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Published on: August 27, 2019
On the Triggering Mechanisms of Upward Lightning
Carina Schumann1, Marcelo M F Saba2, Tom A Warner3
1School of Geosciences and School of Electrical and Information Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa. carina.schumann@gmail.com.
Researchers studied upward lightning flashes in the USA and Brazil. They found that the continuing current following a positive return stroke is the most effective trigger for upward leaders from tall objects.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric science
- Electromagnetism
- Lightning physics
Background:
- Upward lightning initiation from tall structures is a significant phenomenon.
- Understanding triggering mechanisms is crucial for lightning protection and atmospheric studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and characterize the triggering of upward positive leaders from tall objects.
- To identify the specific preceding flash activity responsible for initiating upward leaders.
Main Methods:
- Field campaigns conducted in South Dakota, USA, and S. Paulo, Brazil (2011-2016).
- Utilized high-speed video, digital cameras, electric field meters, and a Lightning Mapping Array.
- Analyzed 110 upward flashes correlated with lightning location system data.
Main Results:
- Identified various flash activity processes that trigger upward leaders from towers.
- Determined the type of triggering flash responsible for upward leader initiation.
Conclusions:
- The most effective trigger for upward leaders is the in-cloud negative leader propagation during the continuing current phase.
- This continuing current follows a positive return stroke, playing a key role in upward flash development.
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