Lightning and electrical activity during the Shiveluch volcano eruption on 16 November 2014
Boris M. Shevtsov1,Pavel P. Firstov1,2,Nina V. Cherneva1,Robert H. Holzworth3,and Renat R. Akbashev2Boris M. Shevtsov et al.Boris M. Shevtsov1,Pavel P. Firstov1,2,Nina V. Cherneva1,Robert H. Holzworth3,and Renat R. Akbashev2
Received: 03 Sep 2015 – Discussion started: 04 Nov 2015 – Accepted: 01 Mar 2016 – Published: 29 Mar 2016
Abstract. According to World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) data, a sequence of lightning discharges was detected which occurred in the area of the explosive eruption of Shiveluch volcano on 16 November 2014 in Kamchatka. Information on the ash cloud motion was confirmed by the measurements of atmospheric electricity, satellite observations and meteorological and seismic data. It was concluded that WWLLN resolution is enough to detect the earlier stage of volcanic explosive eruption when electrification processes develop the most intensively. The lightning method has the undeniable advantage for the fast remote sensing of volcanic electric activity anywhere in the world. There is a good opportunity for the development of WWLLN technology to observe explosive volcanic eruptions.
The Kamchatka volcano group is located near populated areas and international air routes. Due to this, explosive eruptions are a serious threat to their security. To decrease the risks, effective systems for remote detection of eruptions are necessary. WWLLN resolution is enough for the remote sensing of the volcano lightning activity in the early stage of ash cloud formation a few minutes after the eruption when electrification proceeds the most intensively.
The Kamchatka volcano group is located near populated areas and international air routes. Due to...
