Distribution Characteristics and Formation Mechanisms of Lightning in the Malacca Strait

Abstract

In this study, we analyzed lightning distribution in the Malacca Strait area from 2009 to 2021 and explored its underlying physical mechanisms. Lightning activity in this area was higher in the strait than over the land. Both land and sea areas exhibited distinct diurnal cycles. Lightning at sea was prevalent during the night and early morning, whereas lightning over land was prevalent during the late afternoon and evening. Seasonal disparities in lightning occurrences were also noted, with the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone influencing the relatively high lightning occurrences in Southeast Asia during Mar–May and Sep–Nov. Furthermore, lightning in the eastern terrestrial area of the strait preceded the western terrestrial area by approximately 1 to 2 h. Additionally, lightning tends to initiate earlier in the more southward parts around the strait. Lightning occurrences strongly correlated with surface airflow convergence, highlighting the diurnal land–sea breeze cycle as the primary mechanism underlying the lightning formation in the Malacca Strait.