On the influence of channel tortuosity on electric fields generated by lightning return strokes at close distance

Abstract

In this paper the results of the estimated electric field associated with tortuous lightning paths at close distance (50m to 500 m) are shown. Such results are compared with experimental data available in the literature and are illustrated along with a quantitative analysis of the field waveforms and their frequency spectra. The limits of the usual straight-vertical channel assumption and the influence of tortuosity at different azimuth and distances from the lightning channel base are also highlighted.