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Zeinab Mokhayeri, Ebrahim Fatahi, Reza Borna,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (4-2025)
Abstract

To conduct this research, data on monthly synoptic and hydrometric precipitation observations from the National Meteorological Organization and the Ministry of Energy were obtained for a 30-year period (1976-2005). To assess future changes in rainfall, historical data from the period (1976-2005) and simulated climate data from the period (2021-2050) using two models (CM3 and CSIRO-Mk3.6) from the CMIP5 series were used. These simulations were based on four scenarios (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP6, and RCP8.5) with a spatial resolution of 0.5 x 0.5 using the BCSD method. A mean-based (MB) strategy was employed to correct any bias in the model outputs.  The results of the AOGCM models indicated that the CSIRO-Mk3.6 model had a lower error coefficient than the GFDL-CM3 model when simulating precipitation in the Large Karoun case. The average future rainfall (2021-2050) across the entire basin, compared to the average observed rainfall during the statistical period of 1976-2005, exhibited a significant decrease in both the amount and extent of precipitation in both basins for all models and scenarios. In the Great Karoun Basin, heavy rains were consistently concentrated east of the basin across all scenarios and models, with the central foothills experiencing the highest rainfall and the southwest and southeast regions receiving the lowest amounts.  The findings of this study estimate rainfall to range between 83-116 mm, with the highest rainfall expected in the Greater Karoun Basin under the rcp4.5 and rcp2.6 scenarios for both models.

Mohammad Baaghideh, Motahhareh Zargari,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (4-2025)
Abstract

The performance of broiler chickens is directly influenced by temperature changes and the occurrence of heat stress, whether it is cold or hot. The present study aims to assess the cooling and heating degree days in different stages of broiler chicken production in Khorasan Razavi province. To achieve this objective, daily average temperature data were collected from 13 synoptic stations during the statistical period of 1988-2018. Cooling and heating degree days were calculated for each week of production using specific thresholds, and their spatial distribution was analyzed. Furthermore, the relationship between cooling and heating degree days and geographical features was evaluated. The findings indicate a decrease in cooling degree days and an increase in heating degree days as latitude increases. The northern and western regions of the province exhibited a greater need for heating throughout all stages of broiler chicken production, whereas the eastern and southern regions had higher cooling requirements at different production stages. Overall, the northeastern, southern, and western marginal areas of the province, including Khaf, Gonabad, Kashmar, Sarakhs, and Sabzevar, exhibited the lowest cooling and heating needs during the 6-week period of broiler chicken production, making them suitable climates for this economic activity.

Doc. Zahra Ghassabi, Doc. Hoshang Ghaemi, Mr. Ebrahim Mirzaei,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (4-2025)
Abstract

The structure of deep moist convection can be influenced by various factors, including wind shear, available potential energy of convection, relative humidity, and vertical distribution of these variables. Among these factors, wind shear plays a more significant role in the creation of convection. The interaction between large-scale and synoptic-scale processes, along with the adjustment of available potential energy for convection and the presence of convection inhibitors, creates conditions suitable for the development of convection. The large-scale average reduces the convection inhibitor, while even small vertical velocities, such as a few centimeters per second, can have a noticeable impact on the environment's sounding. The presence of potential instability is also considered an important factor in initiating deep moist convection. When the temperature reaches the critical point and the convection inhibitor is removed, moist deep convection begins. If an air parcel rises above the lower stable layer with low relative convective inhibition energy and high relative free convective potential energy, it supports the development of deep moist convection. The initiation of updrafts by warm air masses and the subsequent development of convection depend on parameters like vertical wind shear and the inversion cap of the environment, among others. Large-scale convective systems can be triggered with less forcing due to the significant uplift of the air mass from the surface to the convection level along the front.

Dr Abolhassan Gheibi, Mr Ali Soleymani, Hossein Malakooti,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (4-2025)
Abstract

Nitrogen dioxide is a significant factor affecting air quality in various regions worldwide. The aim of this study is to examine the concentration and trends of nitrogen dioxide pollution between 2005 and 2018, and explore its association with precipitation levels in the region. Based on data derived from the OMI sensor in Iran, the average vertical column concentration of nitrogen dioxide during this period revealed that the highest concentration was observed in the troposphere. Megacities, particularly Tehran metropolis, exhibited elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide due to the high population density and extensive road transportation. Analyzing the annual changes in nitrogen dioxide concentration in the troposphere alongside the average annual precipitation in Iran, it was observed that the pollutant concentration increased from 2005 to 2016 and subsequently decreased from 2016 to 2018, primarily due to population growth. However, when considering the overall trend, there was an upward trend with a slope of 3.53× -2. In contrast, the time series analysis of average annual precipitation in Iran demonstrated a declining trend with a slope of (-0.159 mm × ). Comparing the trends of these two variables, it can be deduced that they exhibit a negative correlation.

Mohammadsaleh Ekhlasi, Dr. Somayeh Soltani-Gerdefaramarzi, Dr. Abolfazl Azizian, Morteza Gheysouri,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (4-2025)
Abstract

In this study, we examined the impact of climate change on the virtual water content of key crops in Kerman province for future periods. Specifically, we utilized the climatic data from the HadCM3 model under the RCP4.5 radiative forcing scenario. The model was calibrated and validated for the base period of 1991-2011. We predicted the precipitation levels, as well as the maximum and minimum temperatures, for selected stations from 2011 to 2070 using data from LARS-WG. These predictions were then compared to the base period. The virtual water content was calculated for three selected crops: alfalfa, barley, and wheat. Our findings indicate that climate change has a significant impact on evapotranspiration and the performance of these crops, consequently affecting future agricultural water productivity. As we project an increase in average temperature during the growing season due to climate change, it is worth noting that the maximum temperature parameter will be more affected by this phenomenon than the minimum temperature. This, in turn, will lead to increased water requirements and plant evaporation-transpiration during this period. Our research also reveals a decrease in precipitation during hot seasons and an increase during cold seasons across all study stations. Notably, the virtual water content for all crops studied demonstrates an upward trend, with barley and wheat showing the greatest average increase in the future period. Specifically, the Kerman station exhibits a substantial increase in virtual water content for barley and alfalfa products, at a minimum of 30% higher than the base period.

Zeinab Ebrahimighalelani, Dr Javad Khoshhal Dastjerdi, Dr Hojatolah Yazdanpanah,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

Each plant needs a certain amount of heat at the time of planting and during its growth and development. The purpose of this research is to determine the thermal requirements of grain corn in the stages of growth phenology in the climatic conditions of Moghan and to determine the suitable cultivation areas in terms of heat requirements in northwest Iran. For this purpose, the technology of corn variety Single Cross 704 recorded consecutively from 2011 to 2014 at the Moghan Meteorological Research Farm and agricultural data from 51 synoptic stations in the northwest of the country (1996-2016) selected from the General Meteorological Organization of the Country have been used. To carry out this research, thermal requirements in each of the 5 main phases of phenology have been determined at the Moghan station, then using the regression equation between the 15-day average of temperature and altitude, a temperature-temperature history map for seed cultivation in all stations from the first half of the year was drawn using Geographic Information System software. Also, the length of scientific periods and the degree of growth day were calculated and the relevant maps were drawn using the Kriging method. Then, it was combined with the layers of altitude, slope of the region and land use, and finally, a zoning map of lands suitable for grain corn cultivation in the northwest of the country was drawn. Based on the results obtained, 27.6 percent of the study area is capable of cultivating this plant.

Moslem Seydi, Kamal Omidvar, Gholamali Mozafari, Ahmad Mazidi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

Climate change is a significant environmental concern due to the sensitivity of glacier melting processes and snow density to climate variations. Currently, a range of satellite sensors, including AVHRR, MODIS, GEOS, and MERIS, are employed for snow monitoring and are extensively utilized to analyze fluctuations and changes in global snow cover. The MODIS sensor is particularly favored for its extensive global spatial coverage, suitable spatial accuracy, and frequent temporal coverage across various scales. Consequently, this study utilizes snow products derived from the MODIS sensor. In this investigation, data on snow-related days from the statistical period of 1989 to 2018 were collected for three provinces: Kermanshah, Ilam, and Lorestan. This data was processed using MODIS snow cover information pertinent to the Middle Zagros region, in conjunction with remote sensing techniques. The study provides a detailed examination of snow cover changes within the specified area. The Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI) was employed to detect snow cover within the MODIS sensor products. To differentiate pixels and identify various phenomena, the acquired images were processed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology. Analysis of seasonal snow cover changes using MODIS sensor imagery indicates a significant decreasing trend in the majority of the studied area, particularly in the elevated regions. Notably, only the western and southwestern regions of the study area exhibit no discernible decreasing trend. Furthermore, the examination of snow-covered days throughout the study period reveals a decrease in snow cover in the Middle Zagros, with these changes intensifying in recent years, especially in the snow-covered areas of the region. Changes in snow cover during the winter months, particularly in elevated areas, were observed to be more pronounced compared to other seasons and regions within the study area.

Zohreh Maryanji, Fatemeh Sotoudeh, Meysam Toulabi Nejad, Ziba Zarrin,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

Understanding and predicting future climatic conditions and characteristics is crucial due to their implications for various aspects of life. This research aims to forecast trends in extreme temperatures in the Hamedan region by employing statistical downscaling of general circulation model data. The LARS statistical downscaling model has been utilized to downscale data from the HadGEM2-ES general circulation model and the coupled CMIP5 model under three emission scenarios (RCP2.5, RCP4.5, RCP8.5). Correlation estimates between the simulated and observed data indicate values exceeding 0.95 for all months. Additionally, the p-values derived from statistical tests based on the model outputs demonstrate an acceptable level of performance in data generation and simulation. Consequently, data from 2011 to 2050 were extracted and analyzed for trends. To elucidate changes in trends, the data were examined across three distinct time intervals. The results indicate that in the optimistic scenario (RCP2.5), no significant trend is observed in the average and minimum temperatures. In contrast, significant trends in temperature data are evident under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, suggesting that the increase in average minimum temperatures reflects severe climatic changes, particularly affecting precipitation patterns during the cold season. Furthermore, the analysis of the trend data reveals a significant increase in average maximum temperatures on both annual and monthly scales across all three examined scenarios, indicating an imminent environmental crisis.

Mrs Fatemeh Vatanparast Galeh Juq, Dr Bromand Salahi, Batoul Zeinali,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

This study investigates the impact of the OLR MJO Index (OMI) and the Real-time Multivariate MJO (RMM) of the Madden-Julian Oscillation on the frequency of dust storms in the stations of Abadan, Ahvaz, Bostan, Bandar Mahshahr, Dezful, Ramhormoz, and Masjed Soleiman, located in Khuzestan province, during the period from April to September 1987-2021. Pearson correlation coefficients were computed to assess the relationship between dust data and the indices, and the findings were depicted through zoning maps. Subsequently, the frequency percentage of each index for both positive and negative phases was quantified. The results indicate a direct and significant correlation between the positive and negative phases of the indices and dust occurrences (with the exception of Dezful station), particularly during the positive phase of the OMI and the negative phase of the RMM. The highest correlation coefficients, ranging from 0.77 to 0.72, were observed for Bandar Mahshahr and Dezful stationsduring the positive phase of the RMM index. Analysis of the relationship between the Madden-Julian Oscillation and dust storms revealed that between 51% and 59% of dust storms in Khuzestan province occurred in the negative phase of the OMI index, while 40% to 49% occurred in the positive phase. In the case of the RMM index, 56% to 63% of dust storms were associated with its negative phase, in contrast to 37% to 50% linked to its positive phase. Notably, the negative phase of the RMM index exhibited a higher percentage of dust storms compared to the negative phase of the OMI index. According to the results of the Monte Carlo test, the displacement of the positive and negative phases of the RMM index significantly contributes to the occurrence of dust storms at most stations in Khuzestan province. Furthermore, tracking the pathways of dust entering Khuzestan province using the HYSPLIT model indicates the movement of particles originating from Iraq, Arabia, and the eastern regions of Syria toward Khuzestan province..

Zahra Hedjazizadeh, Sayyed Mohammad Hosseini, Ali Reza Karbalaee, Shokofe Layeghi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

Drought is a natural hazard that annually causes significant economic, social, environmental, and life-threatening damage in vast areas of the Earth. The damages caused by this phenomenon are intangible but very extensive and costly.  In many circomstancs, modern remote sensing techniques can be a useful tool in monitoring drought due to high temporal accuracy, wide spectral coverage, ease of access, no need for atmospheric correction and ground referencing. In recent years, the province of Hamedan has faced many problems due to frequent droughts. Therefore, the present study focused on investigating and monitoring drought in Hamedan province using the Temperature Condition index and its impact on the vegetation cover of the province using Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) remote sensing data. First, the relevant data was extracted from the Nova star database, and finally, the spatiotemporal behavior of the vegetation cover drought index was examined on 1528 pixels in Hamedan province. The spatial resolution of the data used in this study is 4 kilometers. First, the relevant data were extracted from the Navstar database and ultimately, the spatiotemporal behavior of the drought index and vegetation cover was examined. The results indicate that drought has significantly increased the vegetation cover of Hamedan province based on remote sensing data. Kendall's coefficients indicate the presence of decreasing trends in vegetation cover at a 95 Percent confidence level. Only in May, June, and December has there been a slight decrease in vegetation cover within the extent of drought in the province. The spatial behavior analysis of the drought index on vegetation cover showed that February, March, as well as April have experienced more severe droughts within Hamedan province.

Hassan Heidari, Ebrahim Mesgari,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (7-2025)
Abstract

Understanding the daily weather types of any specific location is crucial for identifying its long-term climate patterns. In this study, we utilized the Wos classification method in conjunction with a comprehensive climatological approach to analyze key variables, including minimum, average, and maximum temperatures, as well as cloud cover and daily precipitation. Data from 1985 to 2021 were collected from 39 synoptic stations, which exhibited a well-distributed representation across the country and provided complete datasets. Weather types were identified using established coding techniques. The findings indicated that the predominant temperature types in the country are primarily categorized as hot and very hot, with sub-codes reflecting generally low to moderate cloud cover and negligible precipitation. Furthermore, the application of Ward's clustering method facilitated the identification of three distinct climatic groups. The geographical characteristics of each location, including factors such as altitude, latitude, proximity to the sea, and synoptic influences, play a significant role in the regional differentiation of these groups within the country. The outcomes of this research can be instrumental in developing weather calendars for various regions, with implications for numerous sectors including agriculture and tourism.
 

Rastegar Mohammadi, Mohammad Saligheh, Mohammad Hossein Naserzadeh, Mehri Akbari,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

Extratropical cyclones, characterized by their frequency, duration, and intensity, serve as the primary drivers of mid- and high-latitude precipitation across the Mediterranean during the winter and autumn months. For this research, climatic variables obtained from the ECMWF network, featuring a temporal resolution of 6 hours and a spatial resolution of 0.25° × 0.25°, spanning from 1979 to 2016, were utilized. Additionally, precipitation data from four basin stations sourced from the Asfezari database for the same period were analyzed. Initially, geopotential height, temperature, humidity, and jet stream data for rainy days were extracted using MATLAB. Subsequently, a cyclonic center extraction algorithm was applied to identify cyclonic centers from the geopotential height data, based on the conditions that the geopotential height is at a minimum and the geopotential gradient is at a maximum. From the geopotential height matrix of rainy days (361×441×498), four distinct atmospheric patterns were identified through cluster analysis. The temporal and spatial frequency of these patterns, as well as the average temperature of cyclonic centers, were analyzed for the cold season months. The results indicated that the first pattern, identified as the Mediterranean trough pattern, is the most frequent, occurring 42% of the time. This pattern is characterized by the presence of a high-level system acting as a barrier, which deepens the low-level Mediterranean system and extends its axis toward the Red Sea. The interaction between low-level and high-level systems enhances instability, resulting in the highest precipitation levels among the identified patterns. Conversely, the fourth pattern, termed the western wind trough pattern, exhibits the lowest frequency at 10%. This pattern is characterized by a trough over the Caspian Sea; however, a high-level system in the southern region inhibits the entry of low-level systems, thereby confining cyclonic activity to the northern portion of the study area. Consequently, the isobars in the northern region assume a more orbital configuration, leading to a decreased influx of cyclones and, as a result, lower precipitation amounts compared to the other patterns. The analysis further revealed that cold-core cyclones accounted for 60% of occurrences in winter and 40% in autumn, while hot-core cyclones constituted 62% in winter and 38% in autumn. Notably, the frequency of hot-core cyclones increased relative to cold-core cyclones in winter, whereas an inverse trend was observed in autumn. Over the past decade, both the frequency and intensity of cyclones have diminished compared to the preceding two decades. In terms of cyclogenesis locations, the western part of the study area has consistently emerged as the most active region. Moreover, cyclogenesis activity exhibits a gradual increase from autumn to winter as the cold season progresses. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of extratropical cyclones and their significant role in shaping precipitation patterns across the Mediterranean region.
 

Toba Alizadeheh, Majid Rezaie Banafsh, Gholamreza Goodarzi, Hashem Rostamzadeh,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

Dust is a phenomenon with significant environmental impacts across various aspects of human life, including agriculture, economy, health, and more. The purpose of this study is to investigate and predict the dust phenomenon in Kermanshah. Meteorological data with a 3-hour resolution for the statistical period (2000–2020) from the Kermanshah station was obtained from the Meteorological Organization. First, the dust data were normalized, and then Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models were used to predict dust concentration, while the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) was employed to analyze and predict the time series of dust occurrence in MATLAB software. The findings revealed that the maximum predicted dust concentration, related to the minimum dew point with the highest Pearson correlation with dust, was estimated at 3451.23 µg/m³. Additionally, the results of the time series prediction using the ANFIS model showed that the linear bell membership function with grade 3, during both the training and testing stages, was the most effective input function among other membership functions. According to the forecasting models, the highest probability of maximum dust occurrence in the next 20 years in Kermanshah is 94%. Based on the aforementioned studies, sufficient information was gathered to conduct this research. The phenomenon of dust, particularly in western Iran and the city of Kermanshah, has consistently posed significant challenges for the residents of these areas. This phenomenon is influenced by specific atmospheric conditions that cause irreparable damage annually, leading to respiratory issues and deteriorating air quality. Therefore, it is essential to pay serious attention to the issue of dust.
 

Mostafa Karampour, Yeganeh Khamoshian Sahneh, Zohreh Ebrahimi, Hamed Heidari,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

Atmospheric rivers are one of the atmospheric phenomena that generate heavy rainfall and can lead to significant human and financial losses. Understanding the synoptic mechanisms of water vapor flux and atmospheric river formation in the country's atmosphere, as well as revealing the interaction between the NAO (North Atlantic Oscillation) zonal component and the creation and intensification of this atmospheric phenomenon, can greatly improve the predictability of torrential rainfall events. The main goal of this research is to investigate the atmospheric river phenomenon in the Iranian atmosphere and its relationship with the phases of the NAO phenomenon. In this regard, data on the zonal and meridional components of wind, specific humidity, and NAO anomalies were obtained from the NOAA database during the statistical period of 1944–2019. The results showed that during the study period, atmospheric rivers have shifted in terms of longitude and latitude, moving toward the southern half of Iran. A high correlation was observed between the NAO index and meridional flows at levels above 600 hectopascals. Additionally, a sigma value of 0.2101 indicated a strong correlation with the NAO in the area where atmospheric rivers enter the Iranian atmosphere.  High-pressure centers play an important role in directing atmospheric rivers. These rivers cannot pass through high-pressure centers and typically exhibit meridional curvature at the outer borders of these centers in the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in southwest and northeast orientations. The primary moisture source for atmospheric rivers entering Iran is the Atlantic Ocean, which is further enhanced by water bodies such as the Red Sea, the Sea of Oman, the Indian Ocean, and the Persian Gulf.

Monireh Rodsarabi, Mohammad Baaghideh, Dr Alireza Entezari, Fatemeh Mayvaneh,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

To assess thermal comfort conditions in classrooms, a field study was conducted in Sabzevar. The thermal sensations reported by students regarding classroom conditions were documented at various times throughout the day during the 2009–2010 academic year across multiple classes. temperature and humidity data within the classrooms were recorded simultaneous using a data logger. To analyze differences, both ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test were employed. The findings indicated that the geographical orientation and floor level of the classrooms did not significantly influence temperature and humidity levels. In contrast, significant hourly variations in these parameters were observed. Overall, reports of cooling sensations were more prevalent than those of heating sensations (24% vs. 12%). Thermal sensation exhibited considerable variation across different months, with October recording the lowest frequency of thermal comfort sensations. In all months except October, students expressed a preference for "heating." Although the performance of the heating system was deemed adequate, its operational schedule should be modified to commence closer to the beginning of morning classes in order to mitigate substantial energy waste. While temperature and humidity within the classrooms did not present significant monthly variations, students' thermal sensations varied markedly between months. This suggests that thermal sensation is influenced by factors beyond mere physical characteristics (temperature and humidity). In addition to climatic parameters, individual characteristics such as sex, age, weight, height, clothing, and activity level also play a significant role in shaping perceptions of thermal comfort. 

Mohsen Azizi, Hossein Mohammadi, Dariush Taleghani,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

The aim of this research is to identify potential areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province, Iran, based on temperature and precipitation parameters. Temperature (daily) and precipitation (annual) data from a 15-year statistical period (2006–2020) were analyzed using methods such as thermal potential diagrams, deviation from optimal conditions, phenology, and zoning of irrigation requirements based on annual rainfall. The results of the temperature evaluation using the thermal potential method, based on thermal thresholds of 0°C, 4°C, and 10°C, revealed that Inche Brun station has the highest cumulative thermal units, while Aliabad Katul station has the lowest. Analysis of the probability of late spring frost at the 95% confidence level showed that frost events occurring at the end of April in the central, eastern, northern, northeastern, and western parts of Golestan Province coincide with the phenological stages of root bulking and sugar accumulation in sugar beet.  Based on the deviation from optimal conditions, Inche Brun station exhibited the lowest deviation (-20.64), indicating more favorable conditions for sugar beet cultivation. Phenological analysis identified Gonbadkavus, Bandar Turkman, Kalaleh, Inche Brun, and Bandar Gaz as the most suitable areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province. Rainfall evaluations using the annual rainfall zoning map of Golestan Province indicated that, while there are no significant limitations in terms of rainfall and water supply for autumn sugar beet cultivation, the recent multi-year droughts necessitate additional irrigation to ensure optimal growth. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential for autumn sugar beet cultivation in specific areas of Golestan Province, taking into account thermal conditions, frost risks, and rainfall patterns. However, supplementary irrigation is recommended to address water shortages caused by prolonged droughts.

Phd Mohammad Mohammadi, Hossein Asakereh, Abdollah Faraji,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

Today, energy consumption plays a decisive role in the qualitative and quantitative development of human life. One of the energy sources that aligns with development, economic prosperity, and the acquisition of climatic comfort is natural gas. This energy source, especially in cold regions of the country, is essential for providing thermal comfort and requires proper management. Effective management of this fossil energy source depends on awareness and accurate forecasting of its demand. For this reason, the demand for natural gas in Zanjan city, one of the cold cities in Iran, was studied and modeled. Two groups of data—weather elements and natural gas consumption—over a period of 9 years (2013–2021) on a daily scale were used for this study. CurveExpert software and regression methods were employed to model the demand for natural gas in the city. Based on the most accurate pattern, temperature was selected as the only independent variable in the chosen model. Polynomial regression, with a correlation coefficient of 0.94 (coefficient of determination of 89.03%), was selected as the final model. The analysis revealed that the percentage increase in natural gas consumption per one-degree decrease in temperature varies across different temperature ranges. From 22°C to 16°C, the highest percentage increase in consumption was observed, while from 0°C to -5°C, the lowest percentage increase per one-degree decrease in temperature was recorded. The turning point and the beginning of issues related to natural gas shortages in Zanjan city were identified to occur at temperatures below -7°C.

Sharifeh Zarei, Dr. Bohloul Alijani, Dr. Zahra Hejazizadeh, Dr. Bakhtiar Mohammadi,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

This study investigates the most significant synoptic patterns associated with widespread snowfall in the eastern half of Iran. To achieve this, weather code data and snow depth records from synoptic stations in the eastern half of the country were obtained from the Iranian Meteorological Organization for the statistical period of 1371-1400 (1992-2021), focusing on the months of October to March. Days with simultaneous snowfall covering more than 70% of the study area were identified as widespread snowfall events. For the synoptic-dynamic analysis of these events, a classification method utilizing cluster analysis was employed. Maps of representative days were generated, including variables such as atmospheric temperature, moisture flux, geopotential height, vorticity, front formation, jet stream location, omega index, and meridional and zonal wind data. Additionally, trend analysis was conducted using the Mann-Kendall test. The results revealed that three primary synoptic patterns are responsible for widespread snowfall in the study area. These patterns include: (1) high-pressure systems over Siberia and central Europe coupled with low-pressure systems over eastern Iran; (2) high-pressure systems over western Iran paired with low-pressure systems over Sudan; and (3) high-pressure systems over central Europe combined with low-pressure systems over eastern Iran and Afghanistan. In all patterns, the intensification of meridional flows in the westerly winds, along with the formation of high- and low-pressure centers, creates blocking conditions that disrupt the westerly flow and promote upward air motion. The concentration of negative omega fields and positive relative vorticity advection, coupled with the positioning of northeastern Iran in the left exit region of the Subtropical Jet Stream, contributes to significant atmospheric instability and widespread snowfall in the region. Furthermore, the trend analysis indicated that, although there is no statistically significant trend in the number of snowfall days in northeastern Iran, the overall number of snowfall days has decreased over time.

Ms. Aida Faroghi, Professor Manuchehr Farajzadeh, ,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

In this study, the frequency of merging events between the polar-front jet stream and the subtropical jet stream, along with their impact on precipitation patterns in western Iran, was analyzed over a ten-year statistical period (2010–2019). Utilizing coding in GrADS, 300 hPa jet stream maps were produced at six-hour intervals. Throughout the study period, the axes of these two jet streams merged on several occasions.
An examination of the frequency of merging indicated that, prior to 2015, the frequency of merging in December exhibited an increasing trend. However, this trend diminished in 2016 and 2017, only to experience a resurgence in 2018 and 2019. It is noteworthy that not all instances of jet stream merging resulted in significant precipitation events (e.g., December 2011, 2014, and 2017). For instance, in light of the substantial rainfall of 110 mm recorded at the Dehloran station, the period from December 12 to 15, 2010, was selected for detailed analysis to elucidate the atmospheric mechanisms responsible for the rainfall. From December 12 to 15, 2010, a decline in air temperature over Europe and Southwest Asia prompted a considerable meridional displacement of the polar-front jet stream, resulting in its merger with the subtropical jet stream. On December 12, 2010, as the polar-front jet stream underwent meridional movement and extended into tropical regions, its velocity core merged with that of the subtropical jet stream over the northern Arabian Peninsula, the Red Sea, and northeastern Africa. The convergence of these two jet streams led to a vertical expansion of the jet stream into lower atmospheric levels. At the mid-levels of the atmosphere, minimal meridional movement was observed. As a result, the Sudan low-pressure system migrated to higher latitudes, merging with the Mediterranean low-pressure system.

Seyd Fateme Hashemi, Ali Shahnazari, Professor Andersen Mathias Neumann,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (10-2025)
Abstract

The catchment area of the Talar River in Mazandaran Province is subject to annual flooding events that facilitate the transport of substantial quantities of silt. To investigate sediment transport dynamics within this watershed, samples were collected at five designated sections along an 11-kilometer segment of the Talar River. The sampling intervals were delineated as follows: 24.7–22.4 km, 18.2–20.5 km, 17.5–18 km, 16.75–17.5 km, and 11.5–16.75 km, measured from the urban area of Malakala-Najjarkala to Arab Roshan, with all distances calculated from the shoreline. This study aimed to analyze sedimentation and erosion patterns over a five-year period (2016–2021) employing the HEC-RAS model. Sediment transport and volume were assessed based on long-term data obtained from the Kiakla hydrometric station, with a specific focus on flood conditions associated with return periods of 2, 10, 25, 50, and 100 years. The findings indicate that the cumulative sediment input at the beginning of the monitored section is 0.9 million tonnes lower than the total sediment at the end. The river exhibits a pronounced tendency towards erosion. In the first section (22.4–24.7 km), the mean sediment height is 11 cm, accompanied by significant sedimentation totaling 6 million tonnes. The second section reflects an approximate deposition of 1 million tonnes. The third section demonstrates a relatively stable sediment pattern. In the fourth section, the conditions for erosion—both in terms of depth and volume—are deemed unsuitable for sediment harvesting. The fifth section (11.5–16.75 km) records erosion amounting to approximately 8.3 million tonnes, with height variations ranging from 10 to 20 cm. Under these circumstances, sediment removal is impractical; However, the implementation of flood management strategies and river engineering interventions is strongly recommended.


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