Use of a dual channel microwave radiometer to detect liquid cloud water upwind of the Medicine Bow target area in Wyoming

A dual-channel microwave radiometer is being operated by Weather Modification, Inc. (WMI) on the western (often upwind) slope of the Medicine Bow Mountains in southeast Wyoming, in the context of the Wyoming Weather Modification Pilot Project (WWMPP) during the winter of 2007-2008. This instrument has full elevation and azimuthal scanning capability, and is programmed to operate sequentially in three predetermined directions at elevations just above the ridge line, with the intent of detecting liquid water in clouds upwind of the target area. The presence of liquid cloud water upwind of the target area is a critical criterion for successful glaciogenic seeding, and these data are being used in real-time to facilitate the seeding decision. The utility of such an approach will be evaluated, and recommendations for improvements be made.