Storm clouds produce electrical “leaders” which descend from the cloud seeking an electrical connection. Storms also cause “upward rising streamers” to rise from ground-based objects. When a downward traveling “leader” connects with an upward-rising “streamer”, a connection is formed and a strike occurs. The Dissipation Array Lightning Protection Systems (DAS) prevents the formation of “streamers” on ground-based objects. If no “streamer” is formed, no connection is made, and no strike occurs within the area protected by DAS.
Check out this video for a quick visual overview.