• Atmosphere
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• v.31 no.5
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• pp.489-510
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• 2021

In this paper, we propose an algorithm for detecting convective initiation (CI) using GEO-KOMPSAT-2A/advanced meteorological imager data. The algorithm identifies clouds that are likely to grow into convective clouds with radar reflectivity greater than 35 dBZ within the next two hours. This algorithm is developed using statistical and qualitative analysis of cloud characteristics, such as atmospheric instability, cloud top height, and phase, for convective clouds that occurred on the Korean Peninsula from June to September 2019. The CI algorithm consists of four steps: 1) convective cloud mask, 2) cloud object clustering and tracking, 3) interest field tests, and 4) post-processing tests to remove non-convective objects. Validation, performed using 14 CI events that occurred in the summer of 2020 in Korean Peninsula, shows a total probability of detection of 0.89, false-alarm ratio of 0.46, and mean lead-time of 39 minutes. This algorithm can be useful warnings of rapidly developing convective clouds in future by providing information about CI that is otherwise difficult to predict from radar or a numerical prediction model. This CI information will be provided in short-term forecasts to help predict severe weather events such as localized torrential rainfall and hail.

• Journal of Korea Water Resources Association
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• v.33 no.2
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• pp.219-227
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• 2000

In Korea, heavy rainfall is mainly induced by the Changma front or frontal system passed over Korea periodically. Both its unknown mesoscale characteristics and the lack of direct measurements make it difficult to predict precipitation reasonably. To understand its 3-dimensional structure, initiation and development mechanism of precipitation in that system will be very helpful to forecast it more accurately. A meteorological radar is specially useful because it produces direct measurement with high resolution in time and space. In this study, representative frontal system is selected and analyzed specially focused on its vertical structure using radar data. Results shows that there are convective cells with horizontal scale of 10 - 20 km in precipitation system. Melting layer located between 3 and 5 km height, maximum fall speeds of rain drops were seen just below bright band.