Vertical evolution of precipitation and associated atmospheric parameters at Ny-Å lesund (78°55′N, 11°56′E) in the Arctic

Abstract

The Arctic is experiencing warming nearly twice the global average rate. This significantly affects its precipitation with the snow to rain and mixed phase transitions. Accurate characterization of these changes requires high-resolution vertical profiling of microphysical processes. This study combines surface observation with vertical profiles of the atmospheric parameters and precipitation to investigate the vertical evolution of different forms of Arctic precipitation. Data were collected from the Himadri Research Station, Ny-Å lesund (78°55′N, 11°56′E) in Svalbard, which is a key location along the atmospheric moisture transport pathway into the Arctic. Micro Rain Radar (MRR), disdrometer and ceilometer were used to characterize the type of precipitation and their microphysical evolution up to 6km in altitude, along with the associated cloud base height. The study also explores seasonal variability in the vertical distribution of both liquid and solid precipitation and links their relationship with atmospheric parameters. Different types of precipitation show a varied behavior in terms of vertical evolution and were found to be highly sensitive within 1.5–2 km above the surface altitude. The results are expected to advance the understanding of Arctic precipitation processes, provide critical insights for improving satellite-based precipitation retrievals, and improve the performance of numerical weather prediction and climate models in polar regions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.