Afghanistan Storms ~ The Rainy Season

Lightning strikes in the Hindu Kush basin near Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, April 20. The 455th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, combat weather team, can predict lightning and thunder with the use of a Tactical Meteorological Observing System. This technology allows the weather team to issue a lightning warning on BAF to ensure the security and safety of all personnel. "It is unusual to have lightning strike within five nautical miles within the basin of Bagram, but on average there are 22 recorded strikes throughout the fiscal year," said Master Sgt. James Lee, non-commissioned officer in charge of the CWT.

A storm rolls into Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, April 20. The 455th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, combat weather team, uses a variety of techniques to predict weather. They use of a Mark IV satellite and visual reference to determine type and severity of storm to better prepare personnel on BAF to maintain mission effectiveness. Rainstorms are frequent this time of year and have the ability to change the landscape to include rivers and streams. With the lack of drainage systems, floods occur regularly throughout the southeast region of Afghanistan. Precipitation in east and southeast regions is about forty centimeters per year.



Photos by Senior Airman Erik Cardenas

455th Air Expeditionary Wing