Ground Validation of GPM DPR Precipitation Type Classification Algorithm by Precipitation Particle Measurements in Winter

Abstract

A field observation was carried out along the coast of the Japan Sea in the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 winter seasons, using the Ground-based Particle Image and Mass Measurement System (G-PIMMS) to evaluate the Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM) dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) precipitation type classification algorithm. The G-PIMMS was installed at Kanazawa University and Ishikawa Prefectural University, which are around 10 km apart from each other. The G-PIMMS observations showed that the major precipitation particle type (graupel or snowflake) was different in the precipitation types classified by the GPM DPR algorithm.