Precipitation Analyses Using SSM/I Measurements for Selected ERICA Cyclones
Abstract
A recently developed Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) exponential rain algorithm is evaluated using passive microwave data from ERICA IOPs 2,3,4, and 5. Resulting SSM/I rain analysis were first compared with aircraft radar and coastal radar data. SSM/I rain analyses in IOPs 2, 3, and 4 were then used with GOES enhanced IR imagery to determine ERICA cyclones' synoptic rain structure. The SSM/I rain analysis in IOP 5 agreed well with the aircraft radar and coastal radar observations. Maximum SSM/I rain rate areas coincided with the radar intensity observations, but SSM/I rain rates were somewhat less than inferred by the radar. SSM/I rain rate analyses clear delineate the liquid precipitation patterns within the IOP 2,3, and 4 cyclones. The SSM/I rain rate data shows promise to significantly improve analysis of precipitation over the ocean, where conventional data is notably sparse.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA246835
Entities
People
- Bayani J. Almario Jr
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School