Modeling the Distribution of Mean Max Hail Damage to Vineyards on the Territory of Kakheti (Georgia) using Data of the Freezing Level in the Atmosphere and Radar Measurements

Abstract

Results of modeling of the distribution of monthly mean max hail damage to vineyards (HDV) and their 99% values of the lower and upper levels (HDV_Low, HDV_Upp) on the territory of Kakheti (Georgia) are presented. Calculations have been carried out using data of the freezing level in the atmosphere and radar measurements of hail max sizes in clouds, also known information about degree of damage to vineyards, depending on the size of the fallen hail. The agricultural area of Kakheti (7050 km2) was divided into 290 squares, the range of heights - 0.21 ÷ 1.19 km. Period of investigation - from April to September. As example map of the distribution of HDV on the territory of Kakheti for May have been built. Data on statistical characteristics on HDV, HDV_Low and HDV_Upp from April to September are presented. The vertical distribution of HDV and HDV_Upp on the indicated territory was studied. It is shown that the calculated values of HDV are in satisfactory agreement with their actual values obtained during the inspection of hail-damaged areas by special commissions.