A Case Study on Two Differential Reflectivity Columns in a Convective Cell: Phased-Array Radar Observation and Cloud Model Simulation

Abstract

A convective cell storm containing two differential reflectivity (ZDR) columns was observed with a dual-polarization phased-array radar (X-PAR) in Xixian County. Since a ZDR column is believed to correspond to a strong updraft and a single convective cell is considered to have a simple dynamic structure with one updraft core, how these two ZDR columns form and coexist is the focus of this study. The dynamic and microphysical structures around the two ZDR columns are studied under the mutual confirmation of the X-PAR observations and a cloud model simulation. The main ZDR column forms and maintains in an updraft whose bottom corresponds to a convergence of low-level and mid-level flow; it lasts from the early stages to the later stages. The secondary ZDR column emerges at the rear of the horizontal reflectivity (ZH) core relative to the moving direction of the cell; it forms in the middle stages and lasts for a shorter period, and its formation is under an air lifting forced by the divergent outflow of precipitation. Therefore, the secondary ZDR column is only a by-product in the middle stages of the convection rather than an indicator of a new or enhanced convection.