Lightning channel

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-001551",
  "term": "Lightning channel",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definitions": [
    "The ionized path through the atmosphere along which a lightning discharge occurs, characterized by extremely high temperatures and rapid expansion of air. This channel is typically only a few centimeters in diameter but can extend for several kilometers. The rapid heating and expansion of air within the channel create the sound of thunder.",
    "The irregular path through the air along which a lightning discharge occurs.\nA typical discharge of flash between the ground and the cloud is actually a composite flash\nwhich is composed of several sequential lightning strokes, each of which is initiated by a leader\nand terminated by a return streamer."
  ],
  "references": [
    "NWS Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/lightning-channel/"
}