Temporal and Spatial Evolution of Precipitation under the Summer Sprite Parent Mesoscale Convective Systems in Japan

Transient luminous events (TLEs) are electrical discharges in the upper atmosphere caused by vigorous thunderstorms. Six sprites, which part of TLEs, were observed on 22 July 2013 from Mt. Fuji (3776 m above sea level), Japan. All six sprites associated with intense positive cloud-to-ground strikes (+CGs), whose causative charges can reside stratiform region. Consequently, we assumed that main could generate an situ charging mechanism, accompanied precipitation growth extensive Thus, supposed there be a relationship between time sequence surface intensity and sprite emissions. In this study, conclude sequences horizontal evolution Mesoscale Convective Systems (MCSs) sprites. As result, prior to 1–5, areal amount strong (≥8 mm/h) increased considerably, only small increase occurred during 6. Analyzing percentage weak respect total precipitation, it was found 1–6 within 20 min after local peaks compared precipitation. particular, 2–5 very close peaks. The rise first peak rate 80 min, while last 6 30 min. temporal differences until suggest speeds, or mechanisms, related differ 1–5 parent MCSs.