Vertical profile of Z-R relationship and its seasonal variation at a tropical location

Rain estimation from both space based and ground based radar rely on the proper relationship on radar reflectivity and rain rate and usually assumed to be of the form Z=AR^b. Vertical rain rate and radar reflectivity data from MRR observations over Kolkata (22° 34´ E, 88° 22´ N) for monsoon and post monsoon seasons of the year 2009 were studied to understand the vertical variation of Z-R relationship for both Stratiform and Convective type of rain events. The effect of seasonal variability of the vertical profile of the rain and radar reflectivity was also studied. Results indicate that the vertical variation of the coefficient A during Startiform rain is more severe than the Convective type of rain. The seasonal variability is also found to be significant for seasons indicating the different rain formation process.