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Summary
Lightning in South Florida causes artifacts in electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings. These EEG artifacts are likely due to brief power voltage fluctuations from lightning, not electromagnetic interference.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Atmospheric Science
- Electrical Engineering
Background:
- Lightning is frequent in South Florida, impacting the region's electrical environment.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings can exhibit artifacts that mimic equipment malfunction.
- Previous research has not definitively identified the source of these specific EEG artifacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of a specific artifact observed in EEG recordings during lightning events.
- To differentiate between lightning-induced electrical interference and other potential artifact sources.
Main Methods:
- Observational analysis of EEG data recorded during lightning events.
- Correlation of artifact occurrences with environmental factors like hospital light flickering.
- Controlled assessment of artifact characteristics independent of EEG machine placement.
Main Results:
- EEG artifacts were observed with variable duration, characterized by abrupt pen deflections and slow recovery.
- Artifacts coincided with hospital light flickering, suggesting a link to power supply disturbances.
- The artifacts appeared irrespective of EEG machine location or orientation.
Conclusions:
- The observed EEG artifacts are likely caused by brief, extreme fluctuations in Mains voltage.
- These voltage fluctuations are probably a result of horizontal lightning electric field effects.
- The findings suggest that lightning-induced power disturbances, rather than radio or electromagnetic interference, are the primary cause of these EEG artifacts.