Virga Observation over NY- Ålesund, Arctic Using Micro Rain Radar

Abstract

Arctic low-level clouds below 2 km pose challenges for satellite observations, as precipitation profiles can't be extracted below 1.2 km due to the satellite's blind zone, like Cloudsat. This leads to the false detection of precipitation above this zone sometimes incase of virga. In-situ ground observations are crucial for verification. Using the Micro Rain Radar in Ny-Ålesund (78° 55' N, 11° 56' E), Arctic, this study analyzes two Virga events and explores synoptic conditions through radiosonde observations. Virga heights are revealed for two seasons, showing snow sublimation at 400 m in summer for 6 hours and 200 m in winter for over 24 hours, emphasizing the temperature/wind-dependent nature of precipitation. Virga events may influence the long-term pattern of seasonal precipitation in the changing Arctic climate, highlighting the importance of accurate observational methods. © 2024 IEEE.