Best lightning generation/simulation algorithm?

Question

So I need some algorithm for programing lightning path generation. Which one is fastest and at the same time realistic?

Answer 1

Here are a few papers on the subject - the first one looks fairly realistic and is purported to be fast.

Fast Animation of Lightning Using an Adaptive Mesh presents a fast method for simulating, animating, and rendering lightning using adaptive grids.

Efficient Rendering of Lightning Taking into Account Scattering Effects due to Clouds and Atmospheric Particles propose an efficient method for creating realistic image of scenes including lightning.