FY13 Dual-Pol Continuous Learning: Focus on QPE

Overview

As the WSR-88D Dual-Polarization upgrade continues, there remains high interest in integrating the new Quantitative Precipitation Estimation (QPE) algorithm products into operations. As a result of this high interest, a short course was developed to help reinforce and add to the training originally delivered in the Dual-Polarization Radar Operations Course. This short course is a three module course aimed to continue learning the strengths and limitations of the QPE products and lessons learned to apply during future events. The three modules, which must be taken in order, discuss:

1. Using radar to estimate rainfall & discussing the legacy Precipitation Processing System (PPS) algorithm,
2. Comparing the QPE and PPS algorithms, and
3. Current understanding of the QPE algorithm and its output.

For NWS personnel to receive credit for this course, please take these modules in the NWS Learning Center. Otherwise, these lessons are available for viewing from the links below.

Description of Modules

The first two modules below are part of the FY13 version of the Distance Learning Operation Course (DLOC). These two modules specifically target the RPG algorithms designed to estimate precipitation (i.e., PPS and QPE). Note, the details of the QPE algorithm were not discussed in the original Dual-Polarization Radar Operations Course. Though these modules are part of the DLOC, we are offering them separately here as an opportunity to provide the understanding to make better use of the rainfall products.

1. Using Radar to Estimate Rainfall & Touring the PPS: This lesson first presents the challenges of using any radar to estimate rainfall. It then examines the inputs (Z, Z & ZDR, KDP) that are used to generate rainfall rates, and their limitations. Finally, this module provides a "tour" of the legacy PPS, including strengths and limitations. This lesson takes approximately 30-40 minutes to complete (including a quiz).

          

2. Comparing the QPE & PPS: This lesson starts with a "tour" of the QPE, then explores both the design similarities and differences between the PPS and the QPE. This lesson takes approximately 25-35 minutes to complete (including a quiz).

          

3. "QPE for RFCs" Webinar: This webinar, intended for the NWS hydrology community, had the highest attendance of any WDTB webinar. The session was recorded and is now available. It provides a QPE "Closer Look", starting with a summary of the design approach. The session also reminds us of the QPE's reliance on other RPG Dual-Pol algorithms, how and where the dual-pol data are used to generate rain rates, and application issues such as the rain gauge bias. The session finishes with expectations, based on our current knowledge, of QPE performance. This recorded webinar is approximately 20 minutes in length (no quiz included).