Analyses of Atmospheric Turbulence Near Surface Observed by Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle in the Suburban Area of Seoul Metropolitan, South Korea

Abstract

As the use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), ranging from small drones to large person‐transport vehicles, continues to expand, detailed wind and turbulence observations near surface in urban areas are crucial for safe flight planning. In summer 2021, a field campaign was conducted in the suburbs of Seoul, South Korea, using a UAV equipped with a sonic anemometer. Horizontal winds were measured at 1‐Hz up to 150 m above ground level. From 1‐Hz winds, turbulence is estimated in terms of the energy dissipation rate using inertial dissipation methods. Stronger turbulence was observed at lower altitudes near surface than at higher altitudes, likely due to surface shears and possibly buoyancy effects. Regionally, strong turbulence was found along riverside walk roads compared to building‐surrounded areas, likely due to flows blocked by buildings. Results highlight need for UAV flight planning that accounts for turbulence across altitudes and urban structures, supporting safer flight routing.