New Info on Turbulence Parameters over Himalayas

  • Using observation from the indigenously developed Stratosphere-Troposphere Radar (ST Radar), researchers at Nainital-based Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) have
    • Compiled both values of the “atmospheric turbulence parameters” and “time and space distribution of turbulence structure” in the troposphere.
  • Though the turbulence parameters for southern India were known earlier, the same were not known over the Himalayan region.
  • As a result, some approximate values were used by modelers for calculating turbulence parameters.
  • Now, modelers will be able to update these values in their existing models.
  • The precise knowledge on turbulence over this region will now help in safe air traffic movements.
  • Development of such (ST Radar) radar at 206.5 MHz, within the country, will further strengthen our efforts to better understand the regional changes in weather and climate, particularly in the Himalayan region, which is having complex topography.
  • Low levels of cloud are generated in a mountainous region with complex topography.
  • Because of this, stable air in this region is set into oscillations known as mountain waves and lee waves.
  • Characterization of turbulence in the mountainous region is vital to understand the dynamics of mountain induced wave disturbances and other related phenomena, which has crucial role in modulating the general circulation wind patterns.