Aerosol Distribution and Severe Storm Dynamics in Northern Thailand During the Pre-Monsoon Season

Severe pre-monsoon thunderstorms in tropical regions pose significant risks to human life and property. To better understand and mitigate these threats, this study investigates the vertical distribution of aerosols and their relationship to storm characteristics. Between May 7-10, 2024, a severe storm affected Northern Thailand, causing extensive damage to over 100 houses due to hail and strong winds. Cloud physics instruments, balloon sounding, and dual-polarimetric radar data from the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation (DRRAA) were used to analyze the vertical distribution of aerosols and their association with the storm's characteristics. Twenty-three hail and intense wind events were identified using the TITAN algorithm. The vertical distribution of aerosols from the 4-day observation period was compared with storm characteristics and balloon-sounding data. The findings of this study can contribute to the development of near-real-time warning systems, potentially reducing the impact of future severe storms.