Radar and Multisensor Precipitation Estimation Techniques in National Weather Service Hydrologic Operations
Publication: Journal of Hydrologic Engineering
Volume 18, Issue 2
Abstract
This paper describes techniques used operationally by the National Weather Service (NWS) to prepare gridded multisensor (gauge, radar, and satellite) quantitative precipitation estimates (QPEs) for input into hydrologic forecast models and decision-making systems for river forecasting, flood and flash flood warning, and other hydrologic monitoring purposes. Advanced hydrologic prediction techniques require a spatially continuous representation of the precipitation field, and remote sensor input is critical to achieving this continuity. Although detailed descriptions of individual remote sensor estimation algorithms have been published, this review provides a summary of how the estimates from these various sources are merged into finished products. Emphasis is placed on the Weather Surveillance Radar–1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) Precipitation Processing System (PPS) and the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) Multisensor Precipitation Estimator (MPE) algorithms that utilize a combination of in situ rain gauges and remotely sensed measurements to provide a real-time suite of gridded radar and multisensor precipitation products. These two algorithm suites work in series to combine both computer-automated and human-interactive techniques, and they are used routinely at NWS field offices [river forecast centers (RFCs) and weather forecast offices (WFOs)] to support NWS’s broader hydrologic missions. The resulting precipitation products are also available to scientists and engineers outside the NWS; a summary of characteristics and sources of these products is presented.
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Acknowledgments
There are many people who have significantly contributed to the success of operational WSR/88D and multisensor rainfall estimation capabilities in the National Weather Service, especially the many field forecasters whose suggestions and experience led to innovations in operational practice and software. The vision and leadership of Dr. Michael Hudlow, former director of the Office of Hydrology, through the 1980s and early 1990s, is most noteworthy. The late Timothy O’Bannon of the WSR-88D Radar Operations Center is also recognized as a very important source of technical leadership in improving the radar precipitation processing system. Dong-Jun Seo, Jay Breidenbach, Chandra Kondragunta, Bryon Lawrence, Mark Glaudemans, James A. Smith, and Paul Tilles were instrumental in creating, deploying, and maintaining MPE. The authors are indebted to many others who have contributed to the development of the PPS and MPE, within the NWS, National Severe Storms Laboratory, and the university community.
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Published In
Journal of Hydrologic Engineering
Volume 18 • Issue 2 • February 2013
Pages: 133 - 142
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Apr 11, 2011
Accepted: Oct 17, 2011
Published online: Jan 15, 2013
Published in print: Feb 1, 2013
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