Path-CVP (pCVP) - Polarimetric radar data snapshot along the predefined path based on Columnar Vertical Profiles

Recently introduced Columnar Vertical Profiles (CVPs) arrange polarimetric radar data, collected via plan position indicator (PPI) scans in height vs. time format. A novel method for polarimetric radar data processing and visualization based on CVP, path-CVP (pCVP), representing the data in height vs. distance format, is introduced. pCVP is a snapshot of the polarimetric radar data along the arbitrary or predefined path with very high spatial resolution. Multiple examples from S-band WSR-88D radars demonstrate the potential usage and advantages of the technique. Monitoring and quantifying instantaneous weather conditions with polarimetric radar along the motorways, mountain overpasses, and aircraft paths during the descent and ascend from the runway are just some of the benefits the novel technique offers. The increasing distance from the radar, and the size of the area used for CVP spatial averaging, may limit its practical usage.