The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has launched a new lightning detection system designed to detect and report lightning instantly.
The environment ministry said that the system was installed by the Institute of Electrical Engineering, part of the Chinese Academy of Science, in collaboration with the Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office). It marks the first time such an instantaneous lightning detection and information system has been set up in the Maldives, with long-range lightning detection sensors installed at Velana International Airport (VIA) and Gan International Airport (GIA).
The ministry said that the system will be integrated with a regional network to detect lightning and thunderstorms both within the Maldives and in surrounding areas. As such, it said that short-range lightning detection equipment will be installed to enhance monitoring capabilities.
Additionally, the ministry highlighted that lightning often damage electrical, electronics, and communication equipment and can sometimes cause accidents resulting in loss of life, property, and other assets. Air and sea traffic safety and security are also impacted. As such, the new lightning detection network will differentiate between different stages of lightning and identify the direction of associated storms, thereby improving forecasting accuracy and early warning systems.
The system will significantly enhance the accuracy of weather alerts (SIGMET) and forecasts (TREND) issued in accordance with International Civil Aviation standards and the Maldives Civil Aviation Regulation No. 3, ensuring greater safety and security for air traffic.