Parameterization and global distribution of sprites based on the WWLLN data

Abstract

This study of the global distribution of sprites is based on the new parameterization and WWLLN (World Wide Lightning Location Network) data for 2016. The information on the position, time, and power (peak current) for cloud-to-ground discharges is taken from the archive of the WWLLN. Parameterizations of the sprite initiation probability are proposed for positive and negative discharges. In the calculations, only nighttime events are considered and the probabilistic nature of the sprite initiation, depending on the impulse charge moment change, is taken into account. It is shown that on average, 870 nighttime sprites per twenty-four hours can be initiated globally, 41.4% of them over land and 58.6% over ocean. On the basis of the proposed parameterization, the regional distribution of sprites is analyzed, as well as seasonal and monthly distribution over land and ocean. The annual dynamics of the number of sprites over land and ocean is investigated, revealing the maximum number of events in August and the minimum in January and February.