This 2-hour module presents the fundamental principles of Doppler weather radar operation and how to interpret common weather phenomena using radar imagery. This is accomplished via conceptual animations and many interactive radar examples in which the user can practice interpreting both radar reflectivity and radar velocity imagery. Although intended as an accelerated introduction to understanding and using basic Doppler weather radar products, the module can also serve as an excellent refresher for more experienced users.
Explain the basic principles of weather radar operation
Describe the primary uses and limitations of radar data as well as factors that affect data quality and interpretation
Interpret wind speed and direction using Doppler radial velocity imagery
Interpret precipitation intensity and movement using radar reflectivity imagery
Use radar imagery to identify phenomena that commonly occur during otherwise fair weather including dust storms, smoke, horizontal convective rolls, fronts, and other boundaries
Use radar imagery to identify common features of precipitating phenomena, such as winter storms, convection, and tropical cyclones
Use radar imagery to identify instances of anomalous propagation, velocity and range folding, non-meteorological targets, and other radar artifacts
radar, Doppler, radial velocity, base velocity, reflectivity, precipitation mode, clear air mode, fine line, dual-polarization, phased array, composite reflectivity, radial, isodop, ground clutter, anomalous propagation, range folding, beam filling, bright band, mesocyclone, downburst, couplet, lake effect snow,
February 2017: HTML and media assets in this lesson have been updated for current browsers and mobile devices.
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