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Dual-Polarization Research: Winter Microphysics

Explore the types of crystals in winter storms, their polarimetric "fingerprints," and their operational utility for improved warning and decision-making processes. Discover the research value of polarimetric fingerprints, combined data approaches, and the benefits for melting layer detection, hail size detection, and quantitative precipitation estimates.

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Dual-Polarization Research: Winter Microphysics

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  1. Dual-Polarization Research: Winter Microphysics Heather Reeves (CIMMS) February 25–27, 2015 National Weather Center Norman, Oklahoma

  2. Types of crystals in winter storms Highly anisotropic: high ZDR Nearly isotropic: ZDR near 0 dB Intermediate forms: ZDR depends on canting angle Polarimetric “fingerprints” can be used to Improve the warning/decision-making process Improve microphysical parameterization schemes and assimilation of radar data See K. Elmore talk NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

  3. Polarimetric fingerprints:Operational utility Dendrites – Enhanced ZDR/gradient in Z Aggregation – Low ZDR/High Z: Melting aloft (freezing rain at sfc) – enhanced ZDR Highly anisotropic - High ZDR NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015 NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

  4. Polarimetric fingerprints: research value Riming Refreezing ZDR NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

  5. Next Frontier: Combined data approaches Radar observations + Profiles of temperature & humidity from numerical models Spectral Bin Classifier (SBC): 3D depiction of cloud habit viewable in MRMS (see K. Howard talk) Radar coverage in lowest 1 km: very limited NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

  6. Next Frontier: Combined data approaches Other beneficiaries of this approach: Melting layer detection Hail size detection Quantitative precipitation estimate (QPE) for snow Z Z ZDR QPE bulls-eyes (see K. Howard talk) NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

  7. Summary Fingerprinting will aid in operational decision making. Fingerprinting reveals new knowledge of microphysical processes. New technology (QVPs: Quasi-Vertical Profiles) allows users to quickly interrogate radar data and is in the process of being transferred to operations. A revolution in the way radar algorithms work is underway – the combined data approach. Z ZDR NSSL is continuing our legacy of revolutionizing the way forecasters use radar observations in all four seasons. Our external partners NSSL Lab Review Feb 25–27, 2015

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