Evolution of Radar and Lightning Variables in Convective Events in Barcelona and Surroundings for the Period 2006–2020
The Metropolitan Area of Barcelona is a densely populated region in the North-East of the Iberian Peninsula. Infrastructures in this area play a significant role in the economy of this part of Europe. The combination of the Mediterranean Sea and the complex topography is responsible for the occurrence of severe weather events in this location and the surrounding areas. The use of remote sensing data in an hourly resolution allows the identification and characterization of those severe episodes, helping in determining the future trends of the adverse weather. This fact is crucial in the development of new engineering projects, as well as in the maintenance of the current ones. Weather radar and lightning observations have enabled the monitoring of an increase in severe weather occurrence and, in addition, the prime characteristics of the thunderstorms responsible for producing them. Deepening vertical developments, the presence of hail, and the decrease of the rainfall efficiency are some of the characteristics that must be taken into account in the near future.