Abstract:
In order to reveal the wind field structure and cause of the downdraft generated by a mesoscale isolated thunderstorm in the central
γ region, a method of combining multi-source data was adopted, with a focus on the analysis of the light detection and ranging (LiDAR). A structural field analysis of a wet downdraft that occurred at the entrance end of the runway at Urumqi Airport on 2022-06-25 was carried out, and data that can characterize the development process of the downdraft were obtained. The results showe that under the background of northwest airflow convergence and cold air accumulation, the mid-low level shear line and the ground mesoscale convergence line were the triggering mechanisms for this process. Two Doppler radar volume scans present the process of the initial development and mature stages of the isolated thunderstorm, with the the process of moist downbursts caused by echo center descending and strong echoes reaching the ground. Strong unstable energy was the key factor causing this severe weather process. The unstable energy accumulated to its maximum 6 min before the occurrence of heavy precipitation, and then rapidly released, accompanied by short-term intense precipitation and triggered the wet downdraf. The center position and anticyclonic characteristics of the thunderstorm high pressure initiation were observed through the wind LiDAR, the area of strong winds and the outer boundary of outflow were then estimated, the size and intensity changes of the high-pressure area were clarified. It provided clear indications for the timing and intensity of the outbreak of the downdraft, and provided strong support for the analysis of the structure of thunderstorm-induced downdrafts, as well as fine warning for flight safety.