Simulating Lightning NO X Production in CMAQv5.2: Evolution of Scientific Updates

Abstract. This work describes the lightning NO X (LNO X ) production schemes in the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model. We first document the existing LNO X production scheme and associated LNO X vertical distribution algorithm. We then describe updates that were made to the scheme originally based on monthly National Lightning Detection Network (mNLDN) observations. The updated scheme uses hourly NLDN (hNLDN) observations. These NLDN-based schemes are good for retrospective model applications when historical lightning data are available. For applications when observed data are not available (i.e., air quality forecasts, future climate studies, and simulations focused outside the NLDN), we have developed a scheme that is based on linear and log-linear parameters derived from regression of multiyear historical NLDN (pNLDN) observations and meteorological model simulations. Preliminary assessment for total column LNO X production reveals that the mNLDN scheme overestimates LNO X by over 40 % during summer months compared with the updated hNLDN scheme that reflects the observed lightning activity more faithfully in time and space. The pNLDN performance varies with year, but it generally produced LNO X columns that are comparable to hNLDN and mNLDN, and in most cases, it outperformed mNLDN. Nevertheless, when no observed lightning data are available, pNLDN can provide reasonable estimates of LNO X emissions over time and space for this important natural NO X source that influences air quality regulations.