Polarization and Dual-Wavelength Radar Observations of the Bright Band

Abstract

Polarization and dual-wavelength radar data are presented for two days on which a radar bright band was observed. The polarization parameters (reflectivity, Circular Depolarization Ratio, and the phase correlation between the main and orthogonal components) are found to yield interpretations about the hydrometeors that are consistent with those obtained from the ratio of the 10- and 5-cm reflectivity factors. Data from stratiform precipitation suggest that wet non-Rayleigh scatterers are present in the vicinity of the 0°C level and in the bright band. The combination of both polarization and dual-wavelength techniques is proven to be more powerful than either technique on its own for the determination of hydrometeor type and size.