High Wind Speed Retrieval from Multi-polarization SAR

Abstract

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has capability to observe tropical cyclones (TCs) with high-resolution and large coverage under all weather conditions. The intensity parameters and two-dimensional fine structure characteristics for TCs can be derived from SAR observations. In this chapter, we make an overview of high wind retrieval from C-band multi-polarization SAR. Co- and cross-polarized geophysical model functions (GMFs) for high wind speed derivation are summarized. The validation results are presented using various GMFs and data sources. The intense effect of rainfall on SAR high winds retrieval is emphasized. We summarize potential challenges and provide possible solutions for high wind retrieval in the future.