Lightning mapping

Lightning mapping NSSL has recently begun exploring the use of lightning mapping data from a new system developed by the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NMIMT). The system maps where all types of lightning flashes occur inside clouds to a range of 150-200 km. Though the present National Lightning Detection Network used by the NWS maps only cloud-to-ground flashes, technologies for mapping both intracloud flashes and cloud-to-ground flashes are becoming feasible and can help improve our ability to detect and forecast storms.

From the detailed, 3-D lightning maps provided by the NMIMT system, we are learning how storms produce intracloud flashes and cloud-to-ground flashes and how each flash type is related to other storm hazards. Scientists are finding how to use trends in the flash rate and location of each type of lightning to help identify the development of thunderstorms, the growth of updrafts, and the formation of precipitation and downdrafts.

NSSL is also investigating techniques for assimilating lightning mapping data into mesoscale forecast models. Benefits are similar to those from assimilating radar data, but lightning data are more compact than radar data, are easier to transmit and process, and are available for regions having no radar coverage.