Relationship between surface meteorological fields and CG lightning distributions around Tokyo metropolitan area

Abstract

Recent researches have indicated that frequency of lightning discharges over highly urbanized area can possibly be increasing due to the effects of urbanization. In Japan, many researches have been published focusing on convective heavy rainfall around Tokyo metropolitan area. On the other hand however, no studies can be found concerning the urban effects on lightning activity.
 In this study, spatial patterns of lightning frequency around Tokyo metropolitan area are discussed based on the analysis of summertime lightning data over the course of 17 years (1994-2010). The data is obtained by LLS (Lightning Location System) operated by Tohoku Electric Power Company Inc..