Date of Thesis

Spring 2026

Description

Volcanic lightning, first documented during the 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius, includes any electrical discharge that is generated during a volcanic eruption rather than a thunderstorm. By analyzing individual eruptions and performing laboratory experiments, previous research has identified multiple controlling factors that influence the charging mechanisms and generation of volcanic lightning. While the previous research has made significant discoveries about the phenomenon, the exact relationship between many of these controlling factors and volcanic lightning generation has been poorly quantified. In this study, we investigate these controlling factors and show that they have a wide range of influence over volcanic lightning generation. Existing data on plume dynamics, ash characteristics, atmospheric conditions, and volcanic lightning data for 14 recent eruptions was acquired through multiple different peer-reviewed publications and public access online databases. Volcanic lightning is documented using both VLF and VHF systems, and due to differences in precision and sensitivity of the instruments, lightning data was standardized by creating and using a VLF:VHF lightning ratio. Weighted linear regression reveals that plume dynamics and atmospheric temperature profiles, in particular the -20℃ isotherm, have the strongest correlation (R2 ≥ 0.62) and impact on volcanic lightning generation when compared to other controlling factors. These results are consistent with relationships discovered from previous research. Weighted correlation coefficients for both wind speeds and relative humidity analyses are weak (R2 ≤ 0.25), indicating that these atmospheric conditions are not strong influencers in volcanic lightning charging mechanisms. Ash characteristics show little to no correlation (R2 ≤ 0.15) with volcanic lightning generation, and best fit lines for these controlling factors show trends that directly conflict with previous research findings. Overall, the results highlight the complex nature of volcanic lightning generation and establish plume dynamics and the -20℃ isotherm as the primary controlling factors. Understanding these relationships advances volcanic lightning prediction capabilities, and it contributes to real-time eruption monitoring when direct observation is difficult or impossible.

Keywords

geology, environmental geosciences, volcanology, volcanic lightning

Access Type

Honors Thesis

Degree Type

Bachelor of Science

Major

Geology & Environmental Geosciences

Minor, Emphasis, or Concentration

Computer Science

First Advisor

Rob Jacob, Ph. D

Second Advisor

Giuseppe Torri, Ph. D

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