Implications from lightning detection on the dynamic evolution of volcanogenic lightning due to major volcanic eruptions

We analyzed lightning associated with major volcanic eruptions with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) ≥ 4 from 2010 to 2024 using detection results of the World-Wide Lightning Location Network, combined with precipitation estimates from the Global Precipitation Measurement mission. The results from an examination of 16 total eruption events showed that peak lightning generally occurs 0.5 to 2.0 hours after the first registration of volcanic lightning, with an average delay of approximately 1.1 hours, indicating delayed electrification associated with plume expansion and charge buildup. The duration of lightning activity generally scales with the spatial extent of the eruptive plume, with larger dispersal areas producing longer lasting electrical activity, suggesting that ash dispersal controls the persistence of electrification. Case studies of the 2020 Taal (Philippines) and 2022 Hunga Tonga eruptions further illustrate distinct lightning evolution patterns linked to eruption style and environmental conditions, especially a stage-dependent coupling between lightning and precipitation. A positive correlation was found during the intensifying phase and a negative correlation after the lightning peak, consistent with the precipitation-driven scavenging of charged particles. Furthermore, the lightning enhancement rate increased nonlinearly with the VEI, highlighting the strong sensitivity of electrical activity to eruption intensity.