Does cloud to ground lightning ever start from the ground?

Question

I'd appreciate links to sites that can confirm if this occurs.

Answer 1

if it did, it wouldn't be called cloud to ground lightening would it?

Answer 2

Here is a website that may help to answer your question: http://weathereye.kgan.com/cadet/lightning/bigspark.html

It states this and the 2nd paragraph answers your question:
It is negative charges in the bottom of the cloud that cause lightning to strike the ground. When the negatively charged particles group together, they begin to seek out positive charges from the ground below. The excess electrons create a channel of charged air called a leader that reaches down to the ground below. The leaders attract other charged ground-based channels called streamers.

When the stepped leader from the cloud meets a returning streamer from the ground, the path is ready. An electrical current called the return stroke, travels back up the path. This return stroke releases tremendous energy, bright light and thunder.

Answer 3

It can, though the moving action of clouds generally tends to dislodge electrons so the negative potential collects up in the clouds and then flows down into the positive earth. If an isolated prominent point, such as a mountain top, is physically (like with wind and rain) wiped enough to strip and collect enough free electrons the discharge could go up to a positively charged cloud. The greater majority (like 80 plus percent) of lightning bolts jump between plus and minus clouds.

Answer 4

Cloud to ground lightning starts from both ends. There is an initial static spark from both ends. Once the sparks meet, finding the path of least resistance, there is the large discharge. Pay close attention next time there is a storm and you might notice the double flash from the lightning. Proving this to you.

Answer 5

the "ground" is so big idont think unough electrons could gather to gump from the ground to a cloud. plus the whole point of lightning is to discharge electromns and only clouds have that problem

Answer 6

My understanding is lightning always starts from the ground. I'll research it now.
OK...Interesting research. Seems invisible "feelers" come out from the clouds and cause visible "streamers" to come up.

Answer 7

it doesn't, the electron buildup happens in the clouds and then jumps to the ground, not ever the other way around.

Answer 8

Yes, always...go to any sight about weather that explains lightening.