Characteristics of two different types of thunderstorms in summer over the Nagqu area in China

To investigate further the characteristics of thunderstorms on Qinghai–Tibet plateau, a plateau vortex (PV) thunderstorm and local thermoconvective (TC) over Nagqu area are analyzed using cloud-radar, microwave-radiometer, raindrop-spectrometer data, their macrophysical microphysical evolution discussed in terms thermodynamic processes, lightning activities. The results show following. 1) cloud layer was deeper PV thunderstorm, but TC had stronger short-time updraft with radial velocity exceeding 10 m/s, warming from strong action latent heat release hydromorphic phase change about twice that thunderstorm. 2) water vapor density increased significantly when passed, liquid content middle lower layers exceeded 4 g/m 3 . maximum ice bigger than trends raindrop number concentration rain intensity were similar, average particle size raindrops smaller 3) Both types accounted for more 90% negative cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning, regions black-body temperature (TBB) less −40 °C larger TBB gradient favorable occurrence CG lightning. 4) Thermodynamic fields bring lift changes to enhance dynamic effects, which together promote development peak ice-phase min ahead active This study reveals different provides certain scientific basis disaster prevention mitigation regarding area.