NEXRAD Radar Data for Midlatitude Convective Cloud Experiment

GPM Ground Validation KINX NEXRAD MC3E V1 contains Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) data collected from a single site in central Oklahoma. The dataset was gathered during the Midlatitude Continental Convective Clouds Experiment (MC3E) between April 22 and June 6, 2011, to characterize convective cloud systems and precipitation. This NASA GHRC DAAC dataset provides ground validation for satellite rainfall retrieval algorithms and model parameterizations.

Use Cases

• Validating satellite rainfall retrieval algorithms over land using ground-based radar reflectivity measurements.
• Providing constraints for model cumulus parameterizations with detailed convective cloud system observations.
• Analyzing storm structure and dynamics using Doppler radar data on mean radial velocity and spectrum width.
• Studying the spatial and temporal evolution of precipitation during the MC3E field campaign.

Strengths

• Data originates from the operational NEXRAD network, a standardized system of 160 WSR-88D radar sites.
• Focuses on a specific, well-documented field campaign (MC3E) designed for complete convective system characterization.
• Provides multiple radar data products including reflectivity, velocity, and spectrum width, as indicated by platform tags.

Limitations

• Exact dataset size, row count, and specific column names are not provided by any source.
• Sources conflict on the last updated date, reporting both 2011-06-06 and 2026-03 13.
• Data is limited to a single radar site (KINX) and a short 46-day period in 2011.

Provenance

Source

NASA GHRC DAAC, collected as part of the GPM Ground Validation program.

Collection Method

Data gathered by the KINX Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) site during the MC3E field campaign.

Time Range

2011-04-22 to 2011-06-06

Freshness

2026-03-13 02:23:10.604066

Geography

Central Oklahoma, United States.