Vol. 36, issue 11, article # 7

Abstract:

The article studies a single thundercloud that developed at night near the coast of the Gulf of Finland. Using three meteorological radars, two lightning detection systems, and a 3D numerical model, the physical processes that caused its electrification are analyzed. It is shown that the first lightning occurred during the period when there was a small area containing graupel particles in the upper part of the cloud. Updrafts played an important role in the formation of this area and the microstructure of the cloud, as shown both by radar observations and numerical simulation. Further intensification of thunderstorm activity is associated with an increase in the cloud volume with graupel and hail. Analysis of the charge values of individual cloud fractions based on the results of numerical simulation showed that hailstones are the main carriers of the negative charge.

Keywords:

thunderstorm, lightning, radar characteristics, numerical modeling, microphysical structure

Figures:

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