New research reveals how monitoring atmospheric electric fields can enhance predictions of severe weather events. By analyzing data from southern Israel, researchers found significant changes in the electric field during heavy rainfall. These findings suggest that electric field measurements can serve as early indicators of extreme weather, providing important nowcasting capabilities, especially in areas prone to flash floods and sudden weather changes.
a new study Led by Dr. Roy Yaniv of the Institute of Earth Sciences and the Sheba Medical Center of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in collaboration with Dr. Assaf Hochman of the Hebrew University and Professor Yoav Yair of Reichmann UniversitySignificant progress has been made in understanding how measurements of atmospheric electric fields can help predict severe weather events. By taking a closer look at a winter low-pressure weather system known as the “Cyprus Low” in the arid Negev Desert in southern Israel, the study reveals new insights into the role of electric fields in predicting heavy rainfall.
The researchers focused on the “wet” Cyprus Low (a condition where rainfall occurs when a cold front passes through) and observed a large increase in the potential gradient of the electric field. The minute-by-minute data showed potential gradient values rising sharply from typical sunny-day levels (around 100-200 volts per meter) to hundreds or even thousands of volts per meter during rainfall. These surges occur as convective clouds pass overhead, showing that different cloud types produce unique electric field patterns. The research also highlights that factors other than rainfall intensity, such as cloud structure and the charge of raindrops, play a role in these electrical fluctuations.
Through these findings, the researchers determined how changes in the electric field are related to specific weather conditions. Enhanced understanding of electric field responses to weather events could significantly improve nowcasting systems for predicting extreme weather, especially in areas prone to flash floods and abrupt weather changes. In Israel, which lies somewhere between desert and Mediterranean climates, slight changes in the location of low-pressure systems can cause dramatic changes in local weather. Therefore, monitoring electric field dynamics can provide early warning signals of severe weather and enhance community preparedness for climate change.
“This study shows how changes in electric fields can serve as indicators of changing weather patterns, allowing us to instantly predict severe weather events,” said Dr. Roy Yaniv. “The ability to identify these changes early is particularly important in fragile regions such as Israel, where even small changes in climate conditions can have significant local impacts.”
This study highlights the importance of incorporating electric field observations into weather monitoring systems, especially in arid and semi-arid regions that are increasingly vulnerable to climate change.
Journal – Atmospheric Research Paper: 10.1016/j.atmosres.2024.107757
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