Flashes of Brilliance: The Science and Wonder of Arizona Lightning

This book is a comprehensive resource on lightning, covering its spectacular, admired, feared, and misunderstood nature. It explores why Arizona is known as the "Lightning Photography Capital of the U.S." and how it impacts people and resources. The authors, well-acquainted with the topic, provide an active and scholarly yet readable overview for a broad audience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 231 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive resource delves into the captivating world of lightning, offering a detailed exploration of its unique aspects in the state of Arizona. Not only is lightning a breathtaking spectacle, it is also admired, feared, and often misunderstood. However, over the past two decades, its understanding has reached a remarkable milestone. This book serves as a valuable guide, shedding light on why Arizona proudly claims the title of the "Lightning Photography Capital of the U.S." It delves into the historical perspectives of lightning, both from the general public and Native Americans, and provides insights into the timing, locations, and impacts of lightning on people and resources within the state.

The authors, who are well-versed in these topics, have crafted a lively and scholarly narrative that is accessible to readers with a general interest in lightning, while also catering to professionals in various scientific disciplines, media, medicine, lightning safety, and fire weather. The book offers a comprehensive overview of lightning, particularly focusing on Arizona, but also providing valuable information for those seeking specific insights into this fascinating phenomenon.

In the opening chapters, the book delves into the origins and characteristics of lightning, providing a scientific foundation for understanding its behavior. It explores the various forms of lightning, such as intra-cloud (IC), cloud-to-cloud (CC), and cloud-to-ground (CG), and discusses the factors that contribute to their formation, including atmospheric conditions, temperature gradients, and moisture content.

The authors then turn their attention to Arizona's unique role in lightning research and detection. They recount the pioneering work of current and former staff members of the University of Arizona, who invented real-time lightning detection in the late 1970s. This breakthrough technology has played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of lightning and its impacts on human activities and the environment.

The book highlights the significant contributions of Arizona lightning research to the global scientific community. It discusses the state-of-the-art lightning detection systems installed in Arizona and their role in monitoring lightning activity across the globe

The authors also provide a wealth of information on the cultural significance of lightning in Native American traditions and beliefs. They explore the ways in which lightning has been revered and feared by different cultures throughout history and discuss the ways in which modern scientific understanding has reconciled these ancient perspectives with contemporary knowledge.

Throughout the book, the authors incorporate captivating anecdotes and personal experiences from individuals who have been captivated by lightning. These stories bring the subject to life and offer a human perspective on the awe-inspiring power of this natural phenomenon.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in lightning, whether they are visitors to Arizona or passionate enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of this captivating natural phenomenon. It provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of lightning, its unique roles in Arizona, and its global significance. With its lively style and scholarly approach, it offers valuable insights into the science, history, and cultural significance of lightning, making it suitable for a broad audience.

Weight: 391g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031198786
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023