Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

Influence of Clouds and Precipitation

Introduction

This module focuses on how microwave sensors provide atmospheric moisture and precipitation information against different surface backgrounds (land vs. ocean). The four products introduced are Total Precipitable Water (TPW), Cloud Liquid Water (CLW), Rain Rate (RR), and Liquid Equivalent Snowfall Rate (SFR). Example single channel imagery is presented for both tropical cyclone analysis and thunderstorms over land.

Training Session Options

NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learning Center.

1. Web-based video
2. MP4 video
3. YouTube video:

References/Additional Links

• Talking points are available for this lesson and may be printed out to easily review the session in detail at any time.
• Powerpoint file
• PDF version of this training module
• Microwave Remote Sensing: Clouds, Precipitation, and Water Vapor
• A First Course in Atmospheric Radiation, 2nd Ed. (Petty 2006)
• SatFC-G: GOES-R Rainfall Rate