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On Rainfall Modification by Major Urban AreasA novel approach is introduced to correlating urbanization and rainfall modification. This study represents one of the first published attempts (possibly the first) to identify and quantify rainfall modification by urban areas using satellite-based rainfall measurements. Previous investigations successfully used rain gauge networks and around-based radar to investigate this phenomenon but still encountered difficulties due to limited, specialized measurements and separation of topographic and other influences. Three years of mean monthly rainfall rates derived from the first space-based rainfall radar, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission's (TRMM) Precipitation Radar, are employed. Analysis of data at half-degree latitude resolution enables identification of rainfall patterns around major metropolitan areas of Atlanta, Montgomery, Nashville, San Antonio, Waco, and Dallas during the warm season. Preliminary results reveal an average increase of 5.6% in monthly rainfall rates (relative to a mean upwind CONTROL area) over the metropolis but an average increase of approx. 28%, in monthly rainfall rates within 30-60 kilometers downwind of the metropolis. Some portions of the downwind area exhibit increases as high as 51%. It was also found that maximum rainfall rates found in the downwind impact area exceeded the mean value in the upwind CONTROL area by 48%-116% and were generally found at an average distance of 39 km from the edge of the urban center or 64 km from the center of the city. These results are quite consistent studies of St. Louis (e.g' METROMEX) and Chicago almost two decades ago and more recent studies in the Atlanta and Mexico City areas.
Document ID
20010095037
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Shepherd, J. Marshell
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD United States)
Starr, David OC.
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 9, 2001
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Meeting Information
Meeting: 7th International Conference on Precipitation
Location: Rockport, ME
Country: United States
Start Date: June 30, 2001
End Date: July 2, 2001
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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