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Spatial Pattern and Land Surface Features Associated with Cloud-to-Ground Lightning in Bangladesh: An Exploratory
Ashraf Dewan1, K M Ashraful Islam2, Tanzim Rahman Fariha3
1School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, Western Australia 6102 Australia.
Cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning in Bangladesh shows strong seasonal patterns, peaking in the pre-monsoon. Surface properties like water bodies and heat flux significantly influence lightning occurrence, suggesting irrigation may play a role.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Meteorology
- Geospatial Analysis
Background:
- Severe weather, particularly lightning, poses a significant threat to life and property in South Asia due to intense tropical convective activity.
- Understanding the relationship between ground surface properties and lightning is crucial for improving safety and mitigation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning and various ground surface properties in Bangladesh.
- To analyze the seasonal and diurnal patterns of CG lightning and identify influencing environmental factors.
Main Methods:
- Utilized GLD360 data (2015-2020) for lightning climatology and seasonal analysis.
- Examined elevation, land use/land cover, vegetation, and surface heat flux data.
- Applied local indicators of spatial association to identify lightning hot and cold spots.
Main Results:
- CG lightning exhibited strong seasonality, with the highest density observed during the pre-monsoon (March-June), accounting for 73% of total events.
- Water bodies and herbaceous wetlands showed a higher influence on lightning occurrence, with latent heat flux playing a major role.
- Diurnal variations in CG stroke hot and cold spots were observed, and large-scale irrigation practices may influence spatiotemporal patterns.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the significant influence of surface characteristics and heat flux on CG lightning patterns in Bangladesh.
- Findings suggest that irrigation practices could impact lightning distribution, particularly during the pre-monsoon season.
- Developing hotspot maps can aid in establishing a lightning monitoring system and enhancing public awareness.
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