Low latitude atmospheric-ionospheric dynamical response to Prior, During, and Post stages of Super Cyclonic Storm “AMPHAN”

Abstract

We present the most intensified Super Cyclonic Storm (SuCS) “AMPHAN” impacts on the low latitude atmospheric–ionospheric system from Ionosonde Observations over Chiang Mai (CMU) located at 18.76°N and 98.93°E. Extensive analysis has been carried out using ionospheric parameters foF2 and hmF2, wind components, and Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR). The dynamical response of atmosphere-ionosphere to SuCS AMPHAN (16–21 May 2020) has been studied in depth, and the effect of the cyclone is classified as non-cyclonic or Prior (9–15 May 2020 taken as reference), During (16–21 May 2020) and Post (22–28 May 2020) stages. We found a significant reduction in foF2 and modulated hmF2 during SuCS AMPHAN. Peak variation in ionospheric foF2 and hmF2 is seen during the ESCS (19 May 2020) and landfalling conditions. The appearance of low OLR and strong negative vertical velocity indicates deep convection during the cyclone. Evidence of 2–6 h gravity wave activity has strongly appeared in precipitation, and the ionospheric foF2 and hmF2 confirm the tropical cyclone – ionosphere dynamical coupling.