Rainfall Estimation Method Based on Multiple-Doppler Radar over the Huaihe River Basin

Abstract

A prompt availability of precipitation intensity is crucial for accurate and effective flood forecast. When radars are coordinated, the mosaic of weather radar can perform rainfall estimation over large areas. This study presents an experimental method of rainfall estimation based on multiple-Doppler radars over the Huaihe River Basin in China. The method emphasizes the combined use of six radars in the area. The processes reviewed are base-data collection, conversion from radar reflectivity to rain rate, rain gauge calibration, consensus of rainfall, and rainfall mosaics. A case study of an extreme meteorological and hydrological event, which occurred in July 2007 over the Huaihe River basin in China, was examined, and the estimated error of rainfall is lower than 45% after calibration with measurements from rain gauges. The results show that the proposed rainfall estimation method presents a cumulative rainfall distribution that is similar to the observations. It is both practical and reliable for the Huaihe River Basin.