Upward Lightning

Upward lightning (UL), the initiation of lightning strokes from tall objects towards the atmosphere, is a significant research area due to its destructive potential, particularly for wind turbines. Current research focuses on improving risk assessment models, often employing machine learning techniques like random forests, to predict UL occurrence based on meteorological factors such as wind speed, direction, and cloud properties. These models aim to enhance accuracy and spatial resolution, moving beyond simple lightning density estimations to incorporate detailed meteorological data for more precise risk mapping. Improved UL prediction capabilities are crucial for mitigating damage to infrastructure and enhancing safety in areas with high concentrations of tall structures.