Meteorological parameter anomalies and anomalous radio propagation over Nigeria

Abstract

Distribution and variation of anomalous radio propagation, temperature and relative humidity anomalies were obtained and analyzed using six years (2010-2015) Era interim data. Seasonal spatial distribution of refractivity gradient and its components were analyzed. The result showed that about 90% of wet component contributed to the variation of refractivity gradient. Highest range of refractivity gradients and its wet components were obtained during the wet season. The result of correlation between ducting occurrence and temperature showed strong negative correlation except in Lagos where positive correlation of 3% was observed. However, positive correlation which ranges between 39% and 70% exist between duct occurrence and relative humidity except in Lagos in Nigeria. Refractivity gradients, relative humidity anomaly and temperature experience a monthly variation. These variations can be attributed to the seasonal movement of inter-tropical discontinuity (ITD) across Nigeria.

Keywords: anomalous, anomaly, correlation, ITD