The Lightning Phenomenon

Lightning has always greatly fascinated awed and frightened the humankind with its spectacular intense tree like flashes. The Phenomenon of lightning is caused by the build up of electrostatic charge in clouds the effect of which has been a challenge for the mankind to explain. Though lightning and thunderstorms are vital in some ways as they generate nitrogen oxygen and free radicals essential for living beings on the contrary these are also capable of causing wild land fires human and animal death through electrocution. It is a natural hazard that causes serious economical and personal losses in many parts of the world. The problem is quite acute especially in South and East Asia Africa and South America due to the high occurrence density of lighting large population and the rapid and unplanned industrialization. The action of lightning's electrical and magnetic fields and lightning current on industrial premises power transmission lines underground communications aircrafts and induction of dangerous over-Voltage are also quite well known. This publication contains 15 papers that explain the level of lightning awareness activities protective measures and myths prevailing in the countries of respective authors. It also provides a fascinating view on the safeguards and remedies to overcome the deleterious effect of this natural phenomenon through modern techniques. The Volume is chiefly based on the discussions and presentations during the International Roundtable on Lightning Protection held at Colombo Sri Lanka during 22-25 May 2007. The information presented herein would hopefully serve as a valuable material for the scientists and professionals engaged in the field of Lightning Physics and the concerned government authorities in developing countries in making their citizens aware about this natural phenomenon and to provide necessary safeguards to mitigate possible disasters.