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VPR

Introduction:

A vertical profile of reflectivity has many applications for radar-derived products. For example, a VPR identified as tropical in nature is used to invoke a tropical Z-R for precipitation estimates. Two types of VPRs are computed - one based on the 3D reflectivity field and the other based on individual tilts. Recent RAP model +10C, 0C, -10C and -20C are indicated.

For details see:
Zhang, J., C. Langston, K. Howard, 2008: Brightband Identification Based on Vertical Profiles of Reflectivity from the WSR-88D. J. Atmos. Oceanic Technol., 25, 1859–1872.
Zhang, J., Y. Qi, 2010: A Real-Time Algorithm for the Correction of Brightband Effects in Radar-Derived QPE. J. of Hydrometeorology, 11, 1157-1171.

TIP: If a circle is hollow (no VPR) go back in time to find the most recent detection.

VPR Default Image

Vertical profile of reflectivity for KVNX

Products:

  1. Single Product Maps
    • 3D Mosaic Derived

      3D Mosaic Derived

      This Vertical Profile of Reflectivity is derived from vertical columns within the 3D reflectivity field between 20 km and 80 km range. 3D Mosaic VPRs are used only for determination of precipitation type and brightband top and bottom.

    • Tilt Based

      Tilt Based

      This Vertical Profile of Reflectivity is derived from individual tilts and is used for reflectivity adjustment.

  2. Tropical Flag Type
    • Standard
    • Testing- A modified version of the algorithm uses different profile criteria for identification of tropical VPRs.
  3. Plot Type
    • Convective (Instantaneous)
    • Stratiform (Instantaneous)
    • Global (Instantaneous)
    • All Three (Instantaneous)
    • Convective (Previous 1 Hour Average)
    • Stratiform (Previous 1 Hour Average)
    • Global (Previous 1 Hour Average)
    • All Three (Previous 1 Hour Average)

Selection Method:

VPR Section Method
  1. Select the region by drawing a box over the area you wish to examine.
  2. This area is now shown in the lower map. The solid white squares indicate that a VPR is available. Green squares indicate that the VPR has been determined to be "tropical" for use in the dynamic Z-R application.
  3. Choose a square and your data will appear in the right window.