Dynamic Monitoring of the Strong Sandstorm Migration in Northern and Northwestern China via Satellite Data

• DOI: 10.4209/aaqr.2016.12.0600
• Publication Date: 2017-06-30T01:47:14Z
• Authors: Qinghua Su; Lin Sun; Yikun Yang; Xueying Zhou; Ruibo Li; Shangfeng Jia
• Keywords: Moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer

Sand and dust storms (hereafter, "sandstorms") not only damage the ecological environment in northern northwestern China but also influence economic social development of affected regions constitute a threat to human health. This study focuses on monitoring sandstorms analyzing sandstorm migration process China. These are characterized by their high frequency occurrences, strong intensity, long durations highly destructive effects. The dry climate conditions low degree vegetation coverage this region increase difficulty monitoring. paper proposes remote sensing method for based Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data radiation characteristics research sandstorms. A that occurred April 23–25, 2014, is analyzed illustrate proposed method. Information validated through visual interpretation comparison with Meteorological Comprehensive Analysis Process System (MICAPS) ground measurements. spatial distribution consistent true-color MODIS data. results MICAPS measurements yields coincidence rate 96.3%. Additionally, can be clearly recognized 6 images captured during 3-day sandstorm. Based above results, we conclude used dynamic