Influence of meteorological parameters on the propagation of lightning electromagnetic fields

Lightning electromagnetic field computation is essential in determining the impact of lightning discharge on various systems, equipment, and structures. In this regard, it is essential to know the factors affecting field propagation, andamongthese, the climatic conditions are essential to consider. This paper discusses the effect of different meteorological parameters on the propagation of lightning electromagnetic fields.The effect of temperature, vapor pressure, and relative humidity fluctuation on the change in the medium parameter is assessed, and the electric and magnetic field alteration is calculated. From the analysis, inconsequential variation is noted in permittivity for a temperature change from 5 degrees C to 100 degrees C and relative humidity from 0% to full saturation of 100%. Upon computing the variation in the field, the peak value of electric field and its time of arrival shows insignificant change. In line with this, the magnetic field propagation also remains unaffected by the weather conditions.