Fine structures of the atmosphere and clouds obtained with a WSR-88D

WSR-88Ds have been designed with a focus on observations of precipitation and severe weather, yet the range of signal detection also captures non-precipitating clouds and other clear air echoes. Signal processing with calculating correlation functions free from noise bias, noise despeckling, and image processing can allow observations of atmospheric signatures with reflectivities of -30 dBZ at 10 km. Fine structures on the order of 50 meter spacing can be detected using range oversampling.

Enhanced radar detectability allows radar observations of clear air up to a height of 5 km. Layered atmospheric structures above the top of the convective boundary layer are shown and a few mechanisms of their origin are discussed. Initiation of convection is demonstrated, and the parameters of convective plumes in central Oklahoma are presented. A transition from convective plumes to cumulus clouds is shown by combining radar and satellite observations.

All six base radar variables are measurable from non-precipitating clouds and could be ingested into atmospheric models. Fine microphysical structures of clouds are demonstrated with a WSR-88D. The radar derived wind fields in clouds can be ingested into the models. A mission for cloud detection across the NEXRAD fleet is proposed, which can help with studies from various climatic regions.