Boundary layer signatures of consecutive thunderstorms as observed by Doppler sodar over western India

Thunderstorm development in terms of turbulence and wind fields observed using Doppler sodar (June 4-6, 2009) is presented. Vertical velocity averaged over convective hours shows net updrafts prior to thunderstorm in contrast to net downdrafts on a normal day (June 4). Moisture availability due to thundershower on June 5 helps develop another thunderstorm on June 6 even with reduced temperature and turbulent kinetic energy. Two thundershowers on June 6 at a time interval of 4 h are observed to have different triggering mechanisms; viz. convective overturning and forced uplifting of stable moist air mass by flow convergence. Shear in wind speed and/or direction prior to thunderstorm and accelerating outflow following the precipitation are the common features observed. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.