Dynamical, Microphysical and Electrical Studies of Convection in STEPS

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This research focuses on the relation between thunderstorm electrification and the microphysical and kinematic properties of clouds as observed during STEPS (Severe Thunderstorm Electrification and Precipitation Study) planned for the early summer of 2000 in western Kansas. Data from aircraft, radar, sounding balloons, and a lightning-mapping network are employed. Special attention is directed to storms that exhibit predominant intra-cloud lightning or positive cloud-to-ground lightning. These kinds of anomalous lightning appear to be associated with severe thunderstorms and may be indicators of storm severity. Examples of specific studies include (1) relating radar storm structure, large hail, and tornadoes to the production of positive cloud-to-ground lightning; (2) determining the role of large hail in storm electrification; (3) evaluating mechanisms that have been proposed to explain anomalous lightning. This project will lead to a better understanding of storm electrification and to new ways of monitoring and predicting storm intensity.