Lightning phenomenon and parameters for engineering application

In this chapter, basic lightning terminology is introduced, different types of lightning are described, and main lightning processes are identified. For the most common negative cloud -to -ground lightning, the number of strokes per flash, interstroke intervals, flash duration, multiple channel terminations on ground, and relative stroke intensity within the flash are discussed. Traditional lightning parameters needed in engineering applications include lightning peak current, maximum current derivative, average current rate of rise, current risetime, current duration, charge transfer, and specific energy (action integral), all derivable from direct current measurements.