Statistics of Radio Refractivity Derived from Prague Radiosounding Data

Vertical gradient of radio refractivity in the lowest 100 m is derived from the meteorological radio-sounding data of the Prague-Libus station. The data cover the measurements at the terms 00, 06, 12, and 18UTC, and the extent of data is 20 years. Diurnal, monthly, and annual distributions are presented and the relative role of the dry and wet components of the refractivity gradient is discussed. The b0 values, expressing the percentage of the time with the refractivity gradient below -100 km-1, are presented. This work should enable the effective radio-relay link design with respect to the radiowave bending

Comparison of saturated areas mapping methods in the Jizera Mountains, Czech Republic

Understanding and modelling the processes of flood runoff generation is still a challenge in catchment hydrology. In particular, there are issues about how best to represent the effects of the antecedent state of saturation of a catchment on runoff formation and flood hydrographs. This paper reports on the experience of mapping saturated areas using measured water table by piezometers and more qualitative assessments of the state of the moisture at soil surface or immediately under it to provide information that can usefully condition model predictions. Vegetation patterns can also provide useful indicators of runoff source areas, but integrated over much longer periods of time. In this way, it might be more likely that models will get the right predictions for the right reasons

Trends in extreme weather events in Europe: implications for national and European Union adaptation strategies

This report, based on a comprehensive collection of scientific data from the last 20 years, provides a rallying call for Europe’s policy makers to come together to devise common strategies to help mitigate the physical, human and economic costs of the rising number of extreme weather events in Europe, such as extreme heat and cold, extremes of precipitation, storms, winds and surges, and drought. Highlights refer to the nature of the evidence for climate-driven changes in extreme weather in the past, the potential impact of further climate change in altering the pattern of these extremes, and possible adaptation strategies for dealing with extreme weather impacts. It first provides information on extreme weather events and trends in recent decades as well as related impacts upon society. It is followed by an introduction to the scientific background on global warming and weather extremes, and the projections of future trends of meteorological extreme events that emerge from climate models under various scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, approaches to adaptation are introduced and recommendations provided. Readers wishing to obtain full source details for the figures, tables and references are recommended to consult the full report, which also includes more detailed analyses of the climatic conditions in various sub-regions of the EU

Comparison of saturated areas mapping methods in the Jizera Mountains, Czech Republic

Understanding and modelling the processes of flood runoff generation is still a challenge in catchment hydrology. In particular, there are issues about how best to represent the effects of the antecedent state of saturation of a catchment on runoff formation and flood hydrographs. This paper reports on the experience of mapping saturated areas using measured water table by piezometers and more qualitative assessments of the state of the moisture at soil surface or immediately under it to provide information that can usefully condition model predictions. Vegetation patterns can also provide useful indicators of runoff source areas, but integrated over much longer periods of time. In this way, it might be more likely that models will get the right predictions for the right reasons