Polarimetric signatures of deep convective updrafts: KDP columns in three-dimensional simulations of deep convection, using bin and bulk microphysics schemes

Observed and forward-simulated polarimetric radar signatures of deep convective updrafts are analyzed for deep convective storms that were observed during the Midlatitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment. In particular, KDP and ZDR columns, regions of elevated positive KDP and ZDR that extend above the melting level, are analyzed and compared with characteristics of simulated updrafts. We focus our analysis on evaluation of updraft sizes and spacing and how updraft characteristics change with their stage in a storm lifecycle. We also evaluate how these updraft properties depend on model microphysical parameterization. Results suggest that details of microphysical parameterization may not affect spatial characteristics as much as they affect quantitative precipitation forecasts.