A study of Thunderstorms around Gauhati Airport

Abstract

Current weather observations of Gauhati Airport from 1955 to 1961 and radar observations of 1960 and 1961 have been analysed, Monthly frequency of days with thunder attains a maximum in May and remains practically steady during monsoon, During pre-monsoon, frequency of occurence of thunderstorms is highest during night and in monsoon and post-monsoon maximum frequency of thunderstorm occurs during afternoon, Analysis of radar observations reveals the profound influence of southern hills on the development of thunderstorms. During monsoon, thunderstorm activity follows closely the anabatic wind activity, No steering level could be found whose wind can be taken as guide for the movement of thunderstorms, However, during pre-monsoon, thunderstorms approach the station mostly from a westerly direction whereas during monsoon they come from south. In general, monsoon thunderstorms move slowly compared to pre-monsoon thunderstorms.