A Numerical Study of Thunderstorm Electrification
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to pursue further understanding of cloud electrification through three separate projects. First, radar observational data of New Mexico thunderstorm activity combined with a numerical thunderstorm model suggests that the degree of thunderstorm electrification depends on the time during which strong updrafts remain within the charging zone. Second, a simple numerical lightning model representing streamer propagation on a 2-D grid was developed. Realistic streamer paths evolve in the model and the conditions for IC and CG strokes are directly related to updraft velocity. Third, a simple cloud model was utilized to investigate factors influencing lightning frequency and its relationship to precipitation. Lightning and lightning frequency are shown to heavily depend on the depth of the charging region which is sensitive to vertical velocity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 04, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA277531
Entities
People
- Marcia B. Baker
Organizations
- University of Washington