Hailstorm Damage and the Improvement of Hail Suppression Systems in Southern Russia

Abstract

The objective of the study is to assess hailstorm damage in the Krasnodar Region and to identify areas for expanding the protected territory within the framework of the hail suppression system development concept. Materials and methods. The article examines the characteristics of hail processes and the extent of damage caused by hailstorms in the territory protected by the Krasnodar Hail Suppression Service. The relevance of the research is determined by the high vulnerability of agricultural lands in the Krasnodar Region to hail phenomena, particularly in the foothill and mountainous areas. Results and discussion. An analysis of radar data and hail damage statistics by districts for the period 2022-2024 was conducted. The main directions of hail cell intrusions and the most aff ected areas were identified. Based on the obtained data, directions for expanding the protected territory were proposed to improve the effectiveness of hail suppression activities. The research results can be used to optimize active weather modification measures and to enhance the regional hail suppression system. Conclusions. The most intense hail processes in the Krasnodar Region are observed during the summer period, particularly in June, under the prevailing influence of south-westerly and westerly air mass transport.