Instrumental Uncertainties in Z–R Relations

Abstract

Intercomparisons among three different sensors for ground-based measurement of drop size distributions are presented: the Joss?Waldvogel distrometer, the optical spectro-pluviometer, and the precipitation occurrence sensor system. Data corresponding to stratiform, continental rain are analyzed, and reflectivity factor?rain rate at the ground (Z?R) relationships are obtained from simultaneous measurements by the three sensors. The Z?R relations derived from the three sensors show differences comparable to the ones seen in distinct climatic regions. In addition, the Z?R relationships are found to be sensitive to the data analysis method.