Colorado Lightning Climatology

Abstract

Average cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flash density values for Colorado are analyzed for the 21-yr period 1996–2016. An annual mean map and monthly mean maps of flash density provide insight into the thunderstorm/lightning climatology over the complex physical landscapes of Colorado. Findings include that 1) the Denver convergence/vorticity zone regional circulation influences the CG lightning distribution across the northeastern Colorado region; 2) moisture associated with the North American monsoon increases CG lightning over the entire state, focusing along the southern exposures of the San Juan Mountains; and 3) the highest concentrations of CG lightning occur where moisture, lift, and instability are maximized.