Accession Number:

ADA278544

Title:

Multiparameter Radar and Aircraft Based Studies of Microphysical, Kinematic and Electrical Structure of Convective Clouds during CaPE

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 15 Jan 1991-14 Jan 1994

Corporate Author:

COLORADO STATE UNIV FORT COLLINS DEPT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Personal Author(s):

• Bringi, V. N.
• Liu, L.
• Caylor, I. J.
• Detwiler, Andrew G.
• Chandrasekar, V.
• Smith, P. L.
• Turk, J.

Report Date:

1994-03-31

Pagination or Media Count:

37.0

Abstract:

Two storms from the 9 August, 1991 CaPE case were analyzed in-depth focusing on multiparameter radar signature evolution over 60 min. in coordination with 24 aircraft penetrations which provided particle image and electric field data together with vertical air motion, cloud water and other state parameters. A total of five discrete cells were identified in the two storms and their life cycle fully documented, Collaboration with South Dakota School of Mines and University of Alabama at Huntsville has resulted in a full integration of aircraft image and field mill data from SDSMT T-28 aircraft with vertical air motion from dual-Doppler wind synthesis UAH. The cellular evolution starts with a warm rain phase where updrafts and a very low concentration of large drops dominate the cloud. As the supercooled drops rise in the updraft they freeze and acquire a water-coat possibly by collisions with other liquid drops. The multi-parameter radar signatures clearly identify this mixed-phase zone. The cloud thereafter gets electrified which may intensify to produce lightning depending on cloud vertical growth, and generation of updraft downdrafts. Radar, Electric field, Microphysics.

Descriptors:

• *CLOUDS
• *STORMS
• *CLOUD PHYSICS
• *RADAR SIGNATURES
• SYNTHESIS
• CELLS
• WIND
• MOTION
• ELECTRIC FIELDS
• LIFE CYCLES
• TRAINING AIRCRAFT
• CONVECTION(ATMOSPHERIC)
• SOUTH DAKOTA
• ALABAMA
• RADAR
• PARTICLES
• RAIN
• LIGHTNING
• FREEZING
• IMAGES

Subject Categories:

• Atmospheric Physics
• Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE