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Multiphase turbulent flow explains lightning rings in volcanic plumes

Earth Sciences

Multiphase turbulent flow explains lightning rings in volcanic plumes

M. Ichihara, P. D. Mininni, et al.

Discover how the explosive eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano on January 15, 2022, generated the highest concentration of lightning events recorded. This groundbreaking study, conducted by Mie Ichihara, Pablo D. Mininni, S. Ravichandran, Corrado Cimarelli, and Chris Vagasky, unravels the mystery of turbulence-induced particle clustering and its role in revealing volcanic activity hidden beneath ash clouds.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai (HTHH) volcano erupted explosively on January 15, 2022, generating the highest concentration of lightning events ever recorded, exhibiting characteristic ring patterns. This study uses 3D simulations of buoyant plumes to reproduce these ring patterns, attributing them to turbulence-induced particle clustering, which facilitates charge concentration. The location, size, and persistence of these rings can reveal pulsatory vent activity hidden by the ash cloud, serving as a proxy for eruption parameters and hazardous environmental impacts.
Publisher
Communications Earth & Environment
Published On
Nov 15, 2023
Authors
Mie Ichihara, Pablo D. Mininni, S. Ravichandran, Corrado Cimarelli, Chris Vagasky
Tags
Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai
volcano eruption
lightning events
turbulence
particle clustering
vent activity
environmental impacts
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