A description of the initial set of analysis products available from the NEXRAD WSR-88D system

Abstract

The NEXRAD program is deploying a network of approximately 160 weather radars throughout the United States and at selected overseas sites. The WSR-88D systems provide highly sensitive, fine-resolution measurements of reflectivity, mean radial velocity, and spectrum width data and generate up to 39 categories of analysis products derived from the base data every five to ten minutes. This paper provides an overview of the analysis products that are available on the WSR-88D systems. Primary uses and limitations of these products are discussed, and several examples are presented. A brief description of the WSR-88D system, including primary components, antenna scanning strategies, and product dissemination plans is also included. -Authors