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Multi-source observations improve thunderstorm gust identification

A new physics-inspired model, PI-TGNet, can generate regional thunderstorm-gust identification maps every 10 minutes with high accuracy. The model integrates ground-based weather stations, weather radar, and satellite observations to learn characteristic wind-speed changes before thunderstorm gusts.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateSep 17, 2026

Observed high vapor supersaturation provides crucial evidence for aerosol convective cloud invigoration

Researchers have observed high water-vapor supersaturation in tropical convective clouds, which can enhance condensation and release latent heat. This finding supports the concept of condensational aerosol convective invigoration, where aerosol particles create new droplets and strengthen updrafts.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 18, 2026

Cleaner ship fuel is reducing lightning in key shipping lanes, research finds

Research from the University of Kansas finds that cuts in sulfur emissions from oceangoing vessels have led to a reduction in lightning stroke density along heavily trafficked shipping routes in the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea. The drop in sulfates from ships can cause fewer cloud condensation nuclei, resulting in weaker convecti...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateJan 20, 2026

Damaging thunderstorm winds increasing in central U.S.

New research by the National Center for Atmospheric Research shows a fivefold increase in damaging thunderstorm straight line winds in the central U.S. over the past 40 years, resulting from warmer temperatures and increasing wind speeds. The study used high-resolution computer modeling to estimate changes in winds and found that clima...

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2023

Zeus also plays billiards

A research group led by Kyoto University collected data on gamma-ray glows from thunderstorms, which may help explain the origins of lightning. The team proposes that high-energy particles from space could trigger lightning discharges.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 9, 2023

Unique image obtained by Brazilian scientists with high-speed camera shows how lightning rods work

Brazilian researchers used a high-speed camera to capture an image of lightning rods trying to connect to nearby buildings, revealing details of the connections. The image shows that even with multiple lightning rods in place, the strike connected to a smokestack on top of one building, highlighting the importance of proper installation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 13, 2023

SwRI reveals the first 'images' of thunder

Researchers from Southwest Research Institute image thunder for the first time, capturing the sound waves created by artificially triggered lightning. The technique allows scientists to study the origins of thunder and the energetic processes associated with lightning, revealing new insights into this natural phenomenon.

Fires in Idaho

NASA's Aqua satellite detected multiple forest fires in Idaho's western region, including the Lodgepole Fire, Ridge Fire, Thunder City fire, and Papoose Fire. The Papoose Fire is currently the largest at 6,504 acres, with containment expected on July 22, 2013.