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WWLL global lightning detection system: Regional validation study in Brazil
Author(s) -
Lay Erin H.,
Holzworth Robert H.,
Rodger Craig J.,
Thomas Jeremy N.,
Pinto Osmar,
Dowden Richard L.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2003gl018882
Subject(s) - lightning detection , lightning (connector) , meteorology , current (fluid) , peak current , remote sensing , environmental science , computer science , geology , thunderstorm , geography , physics , power (physics) , quantum mechanics , oceanography , electrode , electrochemistry
An experimental lightning detection network, the World Wide Lightning Location network (WWLL), is being developed to provide real time global coverage with 10 km location accuracy and at least 50% detection efficiency. This paper provides a “worst case” analysis of WWLL location accuracy in Brazil where the VLF lightning receivers that make up the network are very distant (>7000 km). Through comparison to a local lightning detection network, we analyze the detection accuracy in Brazil with respect to time, location, and peak current of lightning strokes. In this study, we find that WWLL detection is highly dependent upon the peak return stroke current, resulting in detection of about 0.3% of the total lightning strokes. However, the detected strokes have a location accuracy of 20.25 ± 13.5 km and a temporal accuracy of 0.06 ± 0.2 ms, providing a good overview of regions of overall global lightning activity in real time.