Uncharacteristically Slow Discharge Process Observed Preceding Lightning Initiation

In continuation of the study reported last year, we report additional results from imaging lightning initiation via interferometric beamforming of data collected by the Dutch LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR).  Significant improvements have been incorporated into the analysis, including: more accurate antenna characterization, improvements to location accuracy, and the inclusion of a polarization model [Scholten, O., et al., PRD DD12993].  This project complements and enhances the previous work of the LOFAR lightning group of Groningen [Hare, B.M., et al., Nature 568, 360363 (2019)] and [Scholten, O., et al., ESSOAr 10503153] and elucidates regions in which there are a high number of sources within a short duration of time.  Interferometric beamforming techniques enhance both spatial and temporal resolution of lightning sources and as a result, locates and images the first non-impulsive sources in lightning flashes.  These sources are believed to be caused by a streamer-cascade-like initiation event which leads to the formation of the first leader.  Previously observed initiation events start from essentially background and within tens of microseconds ramp up a few orders of magnitude before the first impulsive sources connected with lightning leaders are observed.  The new techniques build upon those previously reported [Sterpka, C., et al., Geophysical Research Letters 48 (2021)] and [Sterpka, C., et al., EGU General Assembly EGU21-13711 (2021)], uncovering new detail in the lightning initiation region and characterization of additional flashes.  This new data includes a slow-propagating initiation discharge, starting 60 ms before the formation of the corresponding lightning leader.  The discharge is within 50 m of the initiation of the lightning leader and propagation speed of this discharge is about 700 ± 30  m/s, comparable to the ion drift speed.  This discharge continues for 30 ms before ceasing, and is likely a failed initiation attempt.