Doppler Radar Michigan Flint: Understanding Reflectivity Values

When it comes to understanding Doppler radar readings in Michigan's Flint area, one key concept is reflectivity values. These values are estimates of rainfall per hour, updated every time the radar scans the atmosphere. Hail is a good reflector of energy, returning very high decibel Z (dBZ) values.

Forecasts use a set of rain rates associated with dBZ values to determine the intensity of rainfall. Typically, light rain occurs when the dBZ value reaches 20. The scale of dBZ values is also related to the intensity of rainfall, with higher dBZ values indicating stronger rainrates.

The value of the dBZ depends on the mode the radar is in at the time the image was created. Notice that the color on each scale remains the same in both operational modes, only the values change. The left-hand scale represents dBZ values when the radar is in precipitation mode (dBZ values from 5 to 75), while the right-hand scale represents dBZ values when the radar is in clear air mode (dBZ values from -28 to +28).

Each reflectivity image you see includes one of two color scales, with dBZ values increasing as the strength of the signal returned to the radar increases. This makes it easier to calculate and compare values using a decibel (or logarithmic) scale (dBZ). Reflectivity is the amount of transmitted power returned to the radar receiver, covering a wide range of signals from very weak to very strong.

In summary, understanding reflectivity values on Doppler radar in Michigan's Flint area requires an awareness of dBZ values and their relationship to rainfall intensity. By recognizing the different color scales used for each mode, you can better interpret the data provided by these valuable tools.

Doppler radar michigan flint