An Initial Assessment of Flash Density and Peak Current Characteristics of Lightning Flashes to Ground in South Florida

摘要

Cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flash density and first stroke peak current characteristics were determined during three months of observation in South Florida. The resultant distributions of these parameters are presented and compared with previous studies. The data are presented in the context of estimating the probability of lightning strikes to surface structures. The limitations of these estimates are described as well as additional research necessary to refine such estimates on a national scale.