Understanding road temperature dynamics: This study explores how air and road surface temperatures adjust to changing weather conditions, particularly the arrival of a warm front. With the aim of exploring thermal mapping along the road, the study also focuses on whether different sitings affect the adjustment time when the warm front arrives and if the time of arrival is important for the resulting temperature variations. The recordings from field stations in the Swedish Road Weather Information System (RWIS) are analysed. The study analyzes thermal mapping data and RWIS recordings to determine the adjustment time for both temperatures. It identifies factors such as weather preceding the front, temperature difference upon arrival, time of arrival, wind speed, and precipitation as influencing the adjustment process. Air temperature is found to react faster than road surface temperature, with shading effects impacting road temperature even hours after the front's arrival. By illuminating the complex interplay of factors affecting road surface temperature, this research contributes to improved road weather forecasting and winter road maintenance strategies, enhancing safety and efficiency for transportation systems.
This study on air and road surface temperature variations aligns with Meteorological Applications' emphasis on practical applications of meteorology for transportation and infrastructure. The journal features research aimed at improving weather forecasting and mitigating the impact of weather on various sectors, making this paper a relevant contribution.