The Role of Weather Radar in Rainfall Estimation and Its Application in Meteorological and Hydrological Modelling-A Review

Radar-based rainfall information has been widely used in hydrological and meteorological applications, as it provides data with a high spatial and temporal resolution that improve rainfall representation. However, the broad diversity of studies makes it difficult to gather a condensed overview of the usefulness and limitations of radar technology and its application in particular situations. In this paper, a comprehensive review through a categorization of radar-related topics aims to provide a general picture of the current state of radar research. First, the importance and impact of the high temporal resolution of weather radar is discussed, followed by the description of quantitative precipitation estimation strategies. Afterwards, the use of radar data in rainfall nowcasting as well as its role in preparation of initial conditions for numerical weather predictions by assimilation is reviewed. Furthermore, the value of radar data in rainfall-runoff models with a focus on flash flood forecasting is documented. Finally, based on this review, conclusions of the most relevant challenges that need to be addressed and recommendations for further research are presented. This review paper supports the exploitation of radar data in its full capacity by providing key insights regarding the possibilities of including radar data in hydrological and meteorological applications.

Automated summary

Radar-based rainfall information is widely used in hydrological and meteorological applications due to its high spatial and temporal resolution. This review categorizes radar-related topics to provide an overview of the current state of radar research, with discussions on the importance of high temporal resolution and strategies for quantitative precipitation estimation. The review also covers the use of radar data in rainfall nowcasting, assimilation for numerical weather predictions, and its value in rainfall-runoff models for flash flood forecasting.