Detailed Evolution Characteristics of an Inclined Structure Hailstorm Observed by Polarimetric Radar over the South China Coast

Abstract

A hailstorm with an inclined structure occurred in the western part of the South China coast on 27 March 2020. This study investigates the detailed evolution characteristics of this inclined structure using the Doppler radar data assimilation system (VDRAS) and the improved fuzzy logic hydrometeor classification algorithm (HCA). Obvious differential reflectivity (often referred to as ZDR) arc characteristics, ZDR column characteristics, and the specific differential phase (often referred to as KDP) of the column are observed using dual-polarization radar prior to hailfall. Both the ZDR column and KDP column reached their strongest intensities during the hailfall phase, with their heights exceeding the height of the −20 °C layer (7.997 km above ground level), displaying a cross-correlation coefficient (CC) valley during this phase. Meanwhile, two centers of strong reflectivity were found, with one (C1) being located at 2–4 km, and the other (C2) being located at 6–8 km. The maximum horizontal distance between the two centers is 8 km, suggesting a strongly inclined structure. This inclined structure was closely related to the interaction between upper-level divergent outflows and ambient horizontal winds. The updraft on the front edge of the hailstorm continued to increase, keeping C2 at the upper level. At the same time, large raindrops at the lower part of C2 are continuously lifted, leading to ice formation. These ice particles then fell obliquely from their high altitude, merging with C1.

Keywords

• inclined structure of a hailstorm
• detailed evolution characteristics
• kinetic properties
• S-band dual-polarization radar
• Variational Doppler Radar Analysis System (VDRAS)
• hydrometeor classification algorithm (HCA)