Description

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Context

A recent study points out the role of soil moisture levels as a predictive tool for intense storms across global hotspots including India.

Traditionally storm prediction relied primarily on atmospheric data. This research suggests that land surface conditions particularly soil moisture are also crucial.

Hotspots Identified

The study identified regions where Mesoscale Convective Systems are common.

Region	Relevance
Northern India	High vulnerability to flash floods
West & Central Africa	Frequent and intense rainfall events
South America	Mesoscale Convective Systems contribute heavily to total rainfall
China	Rain induced disasters
United States Plains	Tornadoes and storm related events

What are Mesoscale Convective Systems?

Feature	Description
Nature	Large clusters of thunderstorms
Size	Can span areas larger than England
Movement	Travel hundreds of kilometers
Impact	50 to 90% of total rainfall in tropical regions
Consequences	Flash floods, landslides, damage to lives and property

Findings of the Study

Aspect	Insights
Forecast Window	Soil moisture changes noticed 2 to 5 days before storm formation
Rainfall Impact	Increased rainfall intensity by 10 to 30% depending on storm size
Temperature & Wind Dynamics	Greater soil moisture contrast leads to greater temperature gradient further leading to stronger wind circulation & turbulence
Broader Application	Similar patterns found in Australia, China and US Great Plains

Why Soil Moisture Matters

Role of Soil Moisture	Explanation
Precursor Signal	Changes precede storm formation by days
Influences Surface Temperature	Dry and wet patches create temperature contrasts
Modifies Wind Circulation	Leads to storm strengthening due to atmospheric turbulence
Enhances Rainfall Distribution	Distributes rainfall across a wider area

Implications for India

March 2024 thunderstorm in West Bengal caused 5 deaths, damaged 800 homes.

Application in India’s early warning systems can

Improve flash flood forecasting.
Reduce disaster response time.
Strengthen community preparedness.

Early Warning System

As per UNDRR it is an integrated system of hazard monitoring, forecasting, disaster risk assessment and preparedness activities enabling individuals and communities to reduce risks.

Sources:

DOWNTOEARTH

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the role of soil moisture as an early warning indicator for intense storms. How can this parameter be integrated into India’s disaster preparedness and climate-resilient infrastructure planning? (Answer in 250 words)