NEXRAD IMPACTS: Winter Snowstorm Radar Observations

KVWX NEXRAD IMPACTS V1 contains Level II weather surveillance radar data from 31 NEXRAD sites collected during the 2020 winter season of the IMPACTS field campaign. The dataset includes dual-polarization base data quantities such as radar reflectivity, radial velocity, and differential reflectivity, aimed at studying snowband formation and microphysics over the U.S. Atlantic Coast. Data files are provided in netCDF-4 format, with updates planned for subsequent campaign years.

Use Cases

• Analyzing snowband formation mechanisms based on radar reflectivity and velocity data.
• Studying snow particle microphysics and growth using dual-polarization variables like differential reflectivity.
• Improving snowfall remote sensing algorithms and numerical weather prediction models.
• Conducting spatiotemporal analysis of winter storm evolution along the U.S. Atlantic Coast.

Strengths

• Data originates from a coordinated, three-year NASA field campaign (IMPACTS) with specific scientific objectives.
• Includes observations from 31 operational NEXRAD (WSR-88D) radar sites, providing wide spatial coverage.
• Contains detailed dual-polarization base data quantities, which are essential for advanced precipitation analysis.

Limitations

• Metadata is incomplete; specific column names, row counts, and file sizes are not provided across sources.
• Conflicting 'last updated' dates exist between platforms (2020-03-01 vs. 2026-04-10), creating uncertainty about data currency.
• The license is ambiguously listed as 'other-license-specified' without explicit terms.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Collection Method

Collected via Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) Level II surveillance systems during the IMPACTS field campaign.

Time Range

January 1 to March 1, 2020

Freshness

2026-04-10 01:54:37.981518

Geography

31 NEXRAD sites, primarily focused on the U.S. Atlantic Coast region.