Leveraging the Multiplatform Precipitation Feature Database of Combined Ground Radar and Satellite Lightning Observations for Convective Studies
The Multiplatform Precipitation Feature (MPF) database combines coincident observations of lightning from space with satellite- and ground-based radar data in a storm-based, feature-defined framework. The concept for the MPF database stems from the motivation to extend the scale and scope of investigations into the complex connections between ice precipitation, updrafts, and lightning in thunderstorms. The earliest iteration of the MPF database incorporates NASA International Space Station Lightning Imaging Sensor (ISS LIS) observations alongside the NASA Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Mission Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) and Validation Network (VN). Because of the specific role of the GPM VN in forming the first MPFs, this subset is referred to as the VNMPF database. The synthesis of these multi-scale and multi-resolution observations leveraged each platform’s unique insights into convective properties and processes, offering a more complete view of deep convection over the large viewing area afforded by satellite coverage. The VNMPF database established the feasibility and infrastructure to combine microphysical, kinematic, and lightning observations from multiple satellite- and ground-based platforms. Following this successful proof-of-concept, recent progress has expanded the MPF database to make use of coincident ISS LIS lightning observations and data from the operational Weather Surveillance Radar - 1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) network, where individual WSR-88D proximity facilitates vertical wind retrievals via dual-Doppler analysis. These database changes have expanded the scope of the dataset by removing the requirement for coincident GPM and ISS LIS overpasses. This increases the sample size dramatically and facilitates analysis of higher-resolution radar-derived properties. These advancements allow both storm-scale and unprecedented broad statistical analyses of deep convection from electrical, kinematic, and microphysical perspectives over the contiguous United States. This presentation outlines the construction of the new MPF database and introduces some preliminary analyses of the convection captured within it. Early results summarize relationships based on updraft characteristics ascertained from WSR-88D dual-Doppler three-dimensional wind retrievals, properties of ice microphysics gleaned from dual-polarization analyses, and electrical characteristics observed by the ISS LIS. The expanded scale and scope offered by more than five years of ISS LIS observations enable new insights into regional and seasonal variations in the microphysical, kinematic, and electrical relationships of convection. Analysis of the database highlights the potential for advancements in lightning meteorology made possible by combining large-scale spaceborne lightning detection and proven storm interrogation tools such as operational polarimetric Doppler radar.