On the Correlation Between Lightning Occurences, Site Topography and Meteorological Data on a 500 kV Transmission Line in Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract:
In recent years, meteorological hazards including lightning strikes have been increasing rapidly due to climate change. This study presents a novel approach to analyze the relationship between lightning activity, meteorological variables, and topography along the 500 kV transmission line A-B in Peninsular Malaysia over a three year period (2015-2017). Leveraging Geographic Information System (GIS) software, data on lightning, weather, topography, and transmission line from various sources are analyzed. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to explore the correlation between lightning activity, elevation, and meteorological variables such as rainfall, temperature, wind speed and pressure. By simplifying the data analysis, PCA aims to identify factors influencing lightning activity on the selected transmission line. Results show a strong correlation between negative lightning Ground Flash Density (GFD) and elevation, as well as rainfall along the selected 500 kV transmission line in Peninsular Malaysia. However, negative lightning GFD showed negative correlations with mean wind speed, mean temperature, and pressure consistently for the years 2016 and 2017. Understanding the factors that driving lightning occurrences could enhanced for a better understanding of lightning distribution in Malaysia. Additionally, this new approach could potentially enhance the reliability of power grids through effective protection systems for different transmission lines.