Frequency distributions of some parameters of negative downward lightning flashes based on accurate-stroke-count studies

This paper presents some parameters of negative cloud‐to‐ground lightning flashes in terms of frequency distribution. All data are based on so‐called “accurate‐stroke‐count studies” from different climatological regions in the world and were already published in the literature with the exception of our measurements. We used GPS synchronized data from two digital high‐speed cameras (at 1–8,000 frames/sec). The parameters considered in this study are: (1) continuing current duration, (2) time intervals between strokes, (3) number of strokes per flash and (4) total flash duration. The analysis includes Berger's data of Monte San Salvatore (Switzerland), which is the basis for lightning protection standards. The comparison suggests that despite of overall agreement of those parameters that some of them, currently used in protection standards, should be revised in order to be more realistic. Key Points Four negative downward lightning parameters obtained with high accuracy Continuing current, interstroke interval, stroke multiplicity and flash duration Six accurate‐stroke‐count studies, including Mt. San Salvatore records