GIS Analysis of NEXRAD coverage

[Scott Lincoln]

Been doing some GIS analysis the last few days on NEXRAD beam height. Put together some graphics that I thought might be worthwhile to share.

Minimum beam height for 0.5 degree scan (ft above radar level) - National Map
http://www.meteor.iastate.edu/~slincoln/GRS/images/0.5deg_min_beam_height_ftarl.png

Minimum beam height for 0.5 degree scan (ft above ground level)* - National Map
http://www.meteor.iastate.edu/~slincoln/GRS/images/0.5deg_min_beam_height_ftagl.png

Minimum beam height for 0.5 degree scan (ft above ground level)* - Central US Map
http://www.meteor.iastate.edu/~slincoln/GRS/images/0.5deg_min_beam_height_ftagl_central.png

NEXRAD coverage deficiences and affected cities*
http://www.meteor.iastate.edu/~slincoln/GRS/images/0.5deg_min_beam_height_ftagl_cities.png


*Note about AGL maps: Uses a fairly simple method for estimating terrain effects to the beam height. Is not a true 3D analysis that would be required for research quality maps and is meant more to be used as a visual aid to show where the ARL maps (and GR status bar info) will be least accurate.

 

[Kevin Cramer]

I really like this as I have recently been thinking more about how radar tilt effects what I see. The bummer is that the two places I live (between school and home) are two of the cities you listed on your coverage deficiencies map. Oh well haha, I guess I at least have TDWR radar at home thats close by.

 

[Jordan Bell]

Very Nice. Very Impressive. Looks like Missouri could use two more radars one in the Northern part of the state and one in the Columbia area. I would go with northern first because of the TV radars in Central Missouri. But kirksville could use one really bad. Too bad there is no funding.

 

[Greg Blumberg]

Wow. I really like these graphics. As someone who is learning more and more about radar, I find these to be incredibly helpful. I remember trying to pick an appropriate storm for some of the storms near on April 26th. Thanks much for this!

 

[Jason McClintock]

Very nice graphics. I always noticed how certain areas of the country do not have a radar site close enough to scan low levels.

 

[Mike McDonald]

Nice charts. There was an earlier discussion on radar holes and the gap around Kirksville, Missouri that Jordan mentions was discussed there, too.
http://www.stormtrack.org/forum/showthread.php?t=19650&highlight=kirksville

Mike