The Good News

1
The Good News

• Modern algorithms for estimating precipitation
  from satellite observations have characteristics
  able to satisfy needs of both weather and climate
  communities
• Climate
• Near-global coverage (60N-60S)
• Complete temporal coverage extended record
• Weather
• Fine temporal/spatial resolution (30
  minutes/0.1)
• Near real time availability (30 minutes hours)
• At least 10 algorithms have been developed and
  implemented generally based on various ways of
  combining geostationary IR and estimates from
  microwave observations
• Extremely encouraging results

2
The Challenge/Opportunity

• These methods make possible solutions to a number
  of difficult problems
• Accurate, real-time operational precipitation
  estimates
• Detailed studies of climate of diurnal cycle
• Forcing for land-surface models
• Precipitation monitoring for water resource
  managers
• However, there is enormous variability among the
  methodologies being applied, and we do not
  understand the relative significance of the
  various factors used
• So there are lots of questions that cannot be
  answered at the moment
• The IGOS-P Water Cycle Theme needs an Integrated
  Precipitation Product what should they do?
• What raw data are essential to permit
  reprocessing for historical extension?
• Can improved HRPPs be developed by combining
  methods?

3
Pilot Evaluation of High Resolution Precipitation
Products (PEHRPP)

• Develop an understanding of the differences among
  the various HRPP and the strengths and weaknesses
  of each.
• Document, for satellite operators, the data
  requirements necessary to enable HRPP production
  and development to proceed optimally and
  efficiently.
• Facilitate the development of improved HRPP for
  various applications.
• Identify requirements, opportunities and uses for
  retrospective processing of selected HRPP.