Regional Variability of Lightning Activity in Pakistan: The Role of Atmospheric and Cloud Properties

Abstract

This study examines the meteorological variables influencing lightning activity over Pakistan from 2001 to 2014 focusing on three regions: R1 (26°–29° N, 64°–69° E), R2 (29°–32° N, 69°–73° E), and R3 (32°–36° N, 70°–73° E). To understand regional variations, we analyzed several meteorological parameters, including aerosol optical depth (AOD), relative humidity (RH), convective available potential energy (CAPE), precipitation (P), liquid water cloud effective radius (LWCER), ice water content (IWC), and liquid water content (LWC) during lightning days. Our findings indicate that lightning activity is correlated with the vertical extent (or thickness) of the mixed-phase zone defined as the layer between 0°C and −40°C isotherms and associated ice and liquid water content. In the lower atmosphere, increased rainfall is associated with higher LWC, whereas in the mixed-phase zone, lightning activity shows a stronger dependence on both IWC and the vertical structure of the mixed-phase cloud layer. Lightning activity exhibits a strong relationship with relative humidity. An inverse correlation between AOD and lightning suggests that aerosols can modulate lightning activity by influencing cloud microphysics, particularly under thermodynamically favorable conditions. These insights underscore the importance of continuous lightning monitoring in Pakistan. A better understanding of these meteorological influences can enhance lightning prediction and improve safety measures in the region.