Electric field changes signal early warnings of extreme weather

Electric field changes signal early warnings of extreme weather
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Nov 18, 2024

A research team led by Dr. Roy Yaniv of the Institute of Earth Sciences at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Sheba Medical Center, collaborating with Dr. Assaf Hochman from The Hebrew University and Prof. Yoav Yair from Reichmann University, has uncovered how electric field measurements in the atmosphere can help forecast severe weather. This study focused on low-pressure winter weather systems called 'Cyprus Lows' in Israel's Negev Desert, exploring the connection between electric field variations and heavy rainfall.

The team concentrated on 'wet' Cyprus Lows, where rainfall accompanies a moving cold front. Observations showed the electric field's Potential Gradient increased significantly, moving from standard fair-weather levels of 100-200 volts per meter to spikes reaching hundreds or thousands of volts per meter during rain events. These peaks were linked to the passage of convective clouds, underscoring that diverse cloud types induce distinct electric field signatures. The findings suggest that elements such as cloud formation and the electric charge of rain droplets contribute to these electric field shifts, aside from just rain intensity.

The research established a correlation between electric field changes and specific weather phenomena, pointing to how such measurements can aid in short-term weather forecasting, especially in regions susceptible to flash floods. Israel's geographic position between desert and Mediterranean climates makes it highly sensitive to even minor shifts in low-pressure systems, which can dramatically impact local weather. Thus, tracking electric field dynamics could act as an early indicator of severe weather, bolstering community preparedness in a changing climate.

"This research demonstrates how electric field variations can serve as indicators of shifting weather patterns, allowing us to anticipate severe weather events in real-time," said Dr. Roy Yaniv. "The ability to identify these changes early is especially crucial in vulnerable regions like Israel, where even minor shifts in climate conditions can lead to major local impacts."

The study underscores the potential of integrating electric field data into weather forecasting tools, which could be particularly beneficial for arid and semi-arid areas facing heightened climate change impacts.

Research Report:Understanding heavy precipitation events in southern Israel through atmospheric electric field observations