Validity of a Maximum Estimated Size of Hail (MESH) Algorithm Using Ku Band Radar

Although radar networks like NEXRAD provide both spatially and temporally high-resolution scans of the atmosphere, their spatial coverage is limited. To better understand frequency and severity of hailstorms on a global scale, observations from space-borne radar platforms could provide a more accessible option. Additionally, it is of interest to determine if NEXRAD based MESH parameter can work with the mobile K band radars. This study validates the applicability of Maximum Estimated Size of Hail (MESH) parameter in spaceborne radar observations. First, the MESH algorithm will be adapted to the maximum reflectivity profiles in precipitation features defined by the Ku radar precipitation retrievals from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM). This algorithm will be validated and tuned using the collocated hail events from the ground hail report from the NOAA Storm Prediction Center with the TRMM and GPM precipitation features. With the caveat of limitations of MESH, the algorithm will be applied to 20+ years of TRMM and GPM observations to estimate the significant, large, and small hail events around the globe.