A multi-radar perspective on the stratiform precipitation region of landfalling hurricane Ian (2022)

Retrievals from space-borne and ground radars are key for improving the representation of precipitation microphysics in numerical models during extreme events such as landfalling hurricanes. This requires an accurate depiction of microphysics and precipitation processes within the vertical column observed during satellite overpasses which includes an understanding of how precipitation varies in the space-borne radar blind zone. This work examines a rare occurrence of an overpass of the NASA Global Precipitation Measurement Mission Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) matched with a ground-based mobile radar (RaXPol) sampling in the outer stratiform region of landfalling Hurricane Ian (2022) to draw conclusions towards filling this gap. The ground-based radar measurements are particularly useful for allowing observations within the DPR blind zone region near the surface. Comparisons between the DPR and RaxPol are made via the vertical slopes of radar variables from each instrument and their associated drop size distribution moments and mean diameter estimates. Furthermore, the variation of retrievals with altitude are considered for their impact on blind-zone correction as well as the continuity in process classification from each measurement perspective to improve knowledge on landfalling hurricane precipitation.