Sign in to view source links and access this dataset
Description
NEXRAD Level II weather radar data were collected from 31 sites along the U.S. Atlantic Coast from January 1 to March 1, 2020, as part of the IMPACTS field campaign. The dataset contains dual-polarization base data quantities, including radar reflectivity, radial velocity, and differential reflectivity, to study snowband formation and microphysics. This data is intended to improve snowfall remote sensing interpretation and prediction models.
Use Cases
Analyzing snowband formation and evolution based on radar reflectivity and velocity data.
Studying snow particle microphysics and growth mechanisms using dual-polarization variables like differential reflectivity.
Validating satellite-based snowfall estimates with ground-based radar measurements.
Strengths
Data originates from a coordinated, multi-year NASA field campaign (IMPACTS) with specific scientific objectives.
Includes observations from 31 NEXRAD radar sites, providing spatial coverage of the U.S. Atlantic Coast.
Contains detailed dual-polarization base data, which allows for more sophisticated precipitation and particle type analysis than single-polarization radar.
Limitations
Metadata completeness is low; specific column names, row counts, and file sizes are not provided across platforms.
Conflicting 'last updated' dates exist between sources (2020-03-01 vs. 2026-04-10), creating uncertainty about data currency.
The initial temporal coverage is limited to a two-month period in early 2020, though the description notes updates are planned.
Provenance
Source
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Collection Method
Collected via Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) Level II surveillance systems at operational sites.
Time Range
January 1, 2020 to March 1, 2020
Freshness
2026-04-10 01:59:31.490172
Geography
31 NEXRAD sites along the U.S. Atlantic Coast
License is listed as 'other-license-specified'; users must verify specific terms. Data files are in netCDF-4 format.