Dual-polarized X-band radar detection and estimation of hydrometeor microphysical parameters

An original hydrometeor classification technique (BRAHC), based on the Bayesian theory, coupled with a variational final-value (VarFV) path-attenuation correction and water content estimation techniques at S- and X-bands, is developed. The main feature of this combined approach is the capability to deal with hydrometeor heterogeneity along each radar ray in a physically-consistent way. Using SPOL and XPOL radar data collected during the IHOP campaign in 2002, a comparison between the results obtained at the 2 different frequency bands is discussed, showing some potentials and limitations of the X-band radar precipitation retrieval. The latter are mainly related to the reduced detectability of the precipitation signal in presence of strong path attenuation through the storm cores.