Rainfall estimation using a C-band polarimetric radar

In order to make accurate measurements of rainfall rates, and correct hydrometeor classification with dual polarimetric radars, the radar must be calibrated and the quality of all the polarimetric variables verified. The steps involved in verifying the quality control are presented. These include the calibration of reflectivity and differential reflectivity, suppression of ground clutter and non-meteorological targets, and attenuation and differential attenuation correction. Additionally, the stability of the returned signal over time from nearby towers is used to verify the reflectivity between calibrations. Finally, a rainfall rate estimation algorithm is used to produce estimates of total rainfall for a number of multiple rain events. Validation of this technique is done by using available ground observations.