Context

Recently, the first phase of the Atmospheric Research Testbed in Central India (ART-CI) was inaugurated in Sehore district in Bhopal. 

What is the Atmospheric Research Testbed? 

• The Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART) program focuses on studying atmospheric processes using advanced measurement systems.
• Objective: To understand cloud dynamics, land-atmosphere interactions, and radiative processes.
• Conduct detailed observation missions and model simulations to test theories and improve how weather models represent convection and land surface processes.
• Organize thorough observations and model tests to enhance our understanding of how convection and land surface interactions are represented in weather models.
• Phases of Implementation
• • Phase One: Under this phase, an ART in central India was to be established to study convection, land-atmosphere interactions, and precipitation.
  • Phase Two: Under this phase,  an ART in the northeast/eastern region would be set up to investigate severe thunderstorm processes.

Significance of Atmospheric Research Testbed:

• Increased understanding of atmospheric processes: The testbed in Bhopal is a distinctive facility for observing weather phenomena.
  • It will help to  enhance meteorological department understanding of cloud systems, land-atmospheric interactions, and tracking of low-pressure systems and depressions.

• Improvement in forecasts: In recent times, the monsoon season has witnessed erratic rainfall patterns due to climate change.
  • The facility will help  to collect crucial data to better observe these changes and improve forecasts.
• Detection of unfavorable patterns: Consistent monitoring will allow for the detection of unfavorable patterns and facilitate prompt interventions which will further ensure the safety of coastal ecosystems, marine life, and human health.
• Facilitation in government planning: Agriculture in the region, stretching from Gujarat to West Bengal across central India, relies on rainfall. 
  • Therefore, Timely accurate forecasts of monsoon will help the government as well as farmers  to make the right decision according to the requirements. 

Indian Monsoon Season

• Indian Monsoon Season: During the June to September southwest monsoon season, India receives about 70% of its annual rainfall.
  • Rainfall in the core monsoon zone is sustained by the interaction between southwest monsoon winds and westward-moving low pressure systems or depressions.

News Source: Indianexpress