The Joint Polarization Experiment—An Operational Test of Weather Radar Polarimetry

In this paper, we discuss plans for the Joint Polarization Experiment (JPOLE), which will represent the first operational test of the polarimetric KOUN WSR-88D radar (located at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma). The experiment will emphasize both 1) an evaluation of tri-agency operational requirements of a polarimetric WSR-88D radar and, 2) an investigation of complimentary hydrological and meteorological scientific objectives.

Present plans call for an experiment that will consists of two phases: a multi-seasonal test and evaluation period (using local facilities for the collection of verification data sets, to begin when the polarimetric upgrade of the KOUN WSR-88D radar is completed), and an intense observation period (using both local and other ground-based and mobile facilities, to begin in the spring of 2003). Both phases will emphasize a demonstration of the utility and feasibility of the polarimetric KOUN WSR-88D radar, and a test and evaluation of its engineering design and data quality. In preparation for the experiment, work is currently underway to develop algorithms that will allow JPOLE forecasters to evaluate hydrological and particle identification products in real time.