Multiparametric classification of C-band radar data

The presence in the radar acquisition volume of backscattering particles differing from raindrops is certainly the predominant source of errors among those that cause a loss of accuracy in the estimation of rainfall rate made by weather radar. Indeed, the presence of either solid- or mixed-phase precipitation or ground clutter, when intercepted by a low elevation antenna beam, can seriously affect the estimates of different precipitation observables and consequently the rainfall rate evaluation. This paper considers some techniques which exploit multiparametric radar capabilities and analyses algorithms' performance for classification of dual polarised echoes from rain against ground clutter. Sample results of data processing are briefly illustrated, referring to echoes collected by a polarimetric, coherent C-band radar system.