Extended Abstract (40K)12.7
WSR-88D Algorithm Comparisons of VCP 11 and New VCP 12
Robert R. Lee, NOAA/NWS/NEXRAD Radar Operations Center, Norman, OK; and R. M. Steadham
A new Volume Coverage Pattern (VCP) 12 was compared with VCP 11 during the 19 April 2003 Oklahoma tornado outbreak. Archive Level II data were obtained from Twin Lakes (KTLX) using VCP 11 (14 tilts in 5.0 minutes) and from the Radar Operations Center test bed radar (KCRI) using VCP 12 (14 tilts in 4.1 minutes). Algorithm performances for a seven-hour period were compared using the Open-systems Radar Product Generator (ORPG). Weather Surveillance Radar - 1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) storm algorithms were found to perform better with VCP 12. The Storm Cell Identification and Tracking (SCIT) algorithm identified 732 cells common to both radars, 1034 cells from KCRI, and 805 cells from KTLX. The SCIT and Mesocyclone algorithms identified and tracked reflectivity and velocity features more consistently with VCP 12. On average, VCP 12 allowed algorithms to identify circulations and cells 6 minutes earlier. Storm track lengths were increased by nearly 50%. In addition, VCP 12 identified circulations and storm cells at greater distances. VCP 12 is planned for deployment in the Spring 2004.
Session 12, Radar IIPS and Applications Part II (ROOM 613/614)
Wednesday, 14 January 2004, 1:30 PM-5:30 PM, Room 613/614
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