Researchers have for the first time recorded X-rays being produced at the beginning of upward positive lightning flashes; an observation that gives important insight into the origins of this rare -- and particularly dangerous -- form of lightning.
Globally, lightning is responsible for over 4,000 fatalities and billions of dollars in damage every year; Switzerland itself weathers up to 150,000 strikes annually. Understanding exactly how lightning forms is key for reducing risk, but because lightning phenomena occur on sub-millisecond timescales, direct measurements are extremely difficult to obtain.
Although X-ray emissions have previously been observed from other types of lightning, this is the first time they have been captured from upward positive flashes. Oregel-Chaumont, the first author on a recentpaper describing the observations, says that they offer valuable insights into how lightning -- and upward lightning in particular -- forms.
The observations at Säntis -- which receives over 100 lightning strikes every year -- are ongoing. Next, the scientists plan to add a microwave sensor to the tower's arsenal of equipment; this could help determine whether the cold runaway model also applies to downward lightning, as unlike X-rays, microwaves can be measured from the clouds.
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