First measurements of electric field variability during fog events in the United Arab Emirates

For the first time, the changes in the atmospheric electric field (Ez) during foggy conditions is studied in a hyperarid region; the United Arab Emirates (UAE), using comprehensive measurements during the Wind-blown Sand Experiment (WISE)-UAE. The longer the fog persists, the more variable Ez becomes, primarily due to the fog's ability to absorb and redistribute the charges of the atmospheric small ions. This absorption alters the ion balance, affecting electrical conductivity within the atmosphere, which in turn leads to sustained alterations in Ez. A record high Ez value of 2571 V m-1 was measured during a long-lasting fog event. Ez values returned to normal during the fog dissipation phase. The results of this work can be applied to develop techniques for fog harvesting and to improve fog forecasting by accounting for the effect of the electric field on fog lifetime and characteristics.

Automated summary

This study investigates the changes in the atmospheric electric field (Ez) during foggy conditions in the hyperarid region of the United Arab Emirates. The results show that as fog persists, Ez becomes more variable due to the absorption and redistribution of charges by the fog, which alters the ion balance and affects electrical conductivity in the atmosphere.