The Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN) is the world’s largest lightning detection system. Its 1800 sensors in 100+ countries can detect both intra cloud (IC) and cloud-to-ground strikes, thus generating faster lightning alerts and warning of severe weather like tornadoes.
Firmware improvements have also been made to further increase sensitivity, and the implementation of a multi-parameter classification algorithm allows IC and CG pulses to be distinguished with very good accuracy. A performance study was conducted to evaluate the characteristics of the ENTLN. The results of the study show that the detection efficiency and the classification accuracy of the new ENTLN processor have greatly improved. ENTLN data is used to track the properties of storms cells, such as the lightning flash rate, cell direction, and speed as a basis for issuing alerts for thunderstorms that have the potential for severe weather. Most severe convective storms can generate high IC flash rate and high IC/CG flash-rate ratios. When rates exceed critical thresholds, Dangerous Thunderstorm Alerts (DTAs) are issued. The system helps in predicting the storm dangers by generating a DTA with significant lead time before the ground-level severe weather. Through the life of the DTA warned storm, the storm cells are monitored continuously, which enhances the situational awareness. In this study, we analyze several severe weather events to estimate the effectiveness of DTAs as well as implications for improving public safety.
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