Utilizing A Supplemental High-Resolution Weather Radar Network For Improved Quantitative Precipitation Estimates For Broadcasters

Increasing instances of flooding has some broadcasters seeking enhanced tools to cover the risks for their audiencedriving the need for more accurate tools in precipitation estimation. Ground-based gauges are the traditional method to accurately calculate rainfall, but they are prone to errors and sitings often reach less than adequate density. Weather radars, such as the NEXRADs and TDWRs provide improved resolution of precipitation compared to gauges but lose clarity the farther locations are from the radar. Climavision is currently installing a supplemental high-resolution weather radar network to provide sufficient low-level coverage to aid in more accurate quantitative precipitation estimates (QPEs). This presentation will provide an overview of the network, along with several QPE case studies and suggestions on how broadcasters can leverage improved QPE data to provide more comprehensive coverage during potential flooding events.