A Comparison of Storm Characteristic Between Mountainous and Plain Areas within Central Macedonia

A comparison of storm characteristics between two selected areas (one mountainous and one plain) of Imathia-Pella region is performed, using radar-derived data taken from the C-band weather radar situated at Fyliro area, close to Thessaloniki and the cell tracker TITAN (Thunderstorm Identification, Tracking, Analysis, and Nowcasting – NCAR). The objective on this study is: firstly, to analyze, describe and compare storm characteristics between the two examined areas, and secondly, to identify monthly differences among them. The TITAN algorithm is used to obtain storm measurements during the months April to September for the 3-year period of 2008–2010. The radar-based storm information is compiled using certain storm-tracking thresholds. Following this approach, the total storm days and cell number, were identified. Results indicate that convective cells that affect both areas differ in number as well as in their characteristics. Cells develop over the mountainous area earlier within the day, move slower, have higher maximum reflectivity values and 35% of them do not precipitate at all. Monthly distribution of relative frequencies also revealed certain differences among transitional and summer months.