An Assessment of Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Thunder Storms in Iran

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to investigate temporal and spatial distribution of thunderstorm frequency in Iran. In order to do study, observed statistical data of the present weather codes of thunderstorm (17, 29, 91 - 99) in 50 synoptic stations around the country were used in a 35 years statistic period (1979-2013). The results of the study showed that the phenomenon occurs mostly in southwest, west and northwest regions of Iran. Thunderstorm occurrence reduces when moving toward east. Maku station in northwest of Iran shows the maximum thunderstorm frequency during the statistical period (mean annual of 31). Jask station in southern Iran (mean annual of 2) has shown minimum thunderstorm occurrence during the statistical period. In the eastern regions of Iran, Torbat Heydarieh station revealed higher frequency than the other stations which was because of high mountains like Qaenat. In terms of temporal distribution, spring showed the highest frequency of the phenomenon. In monthly scale, the maximum frequency of hail downfall happens in April and May. In hourly scale, the maximum occurrence of thunderstorm observed at 12 - 18 p.m. for UTC time.