The Hydrometeor Classification Algorithm for the Polarimetric WSR-88D: Description and Application to an MCS

Abstract This paper contains a description of the most recent version of the hydrometeor classification algorithm for polarimetric Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D). This version contains several modifications and refinements of the previous echo classification algorithm based on the principles of fuzzy logic. These modifications include the estimation of confidence factors that characterize the possible impacts of all error sources on radar measurements, the assignment of the matrix of weights that characterizes the classification power of each variable with respect to every class of radar echo, and the implementation of a class designation system based on the distance from the radar and the parameters of the melting layer that are determined as functions of azimuth with polarimetric radar measurements. These additions provide considerable flexibility and improve the discrimination between liquid and frozen hydrometeors. The new classification scheme utilizes all available polarimetric variables and discerns 10 different classes of radar echoes. Furthermore, a methodology for the new fuzzy logic classification scheme is discussed and the results are illustrated using polarimetric radar data collected with the Norman, Oklahoma (KOUN), WSR-88D prototype radar during a mesoscale convective system event on 13 May 2005.