Atmospheric Measurement Techniques
Atmospheric Measurement Techniques
AMT
Articles | Volume 18, issue 5
Articles | Volume 18, issue 5
https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-1209-2025
© Author(s) 2025. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-18-1209-2025
© Author(s) 2025. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Articles | Volume 18, issue 5
Research article
 | 
11 Mar 2025
Research article |  | 11 Mar 2025

Peering into the heart of thunderstorm clouds: insights from cloud radar and spectral polarimetry

Ho Yi Lydia Mak and Christine Unal

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Cited articles

Aiswarya Lakshmi, K., Sahoo, S., Biswas, S., and Chandrasekar, V.: Study of Microphysical Signatures Based on Spectral Polarimetry during the RELAMPAGO Field Experiment in Argentina, J. Atmos. Ocean. Tech., 41, 235–260, 2024. a
Bailey, M. P. and Hallett, J.: A comprehensive habit diagram for atmospheric ice crystals: Confirmation from the laboratory, AIRS II, and other field studies, J. Atmos. Sci., 66, 2888–2899, 2009. a
Brussaard, G.: A meteorological model for rain-induced cross polarization, IEEE T. Antenn. Propag., 24, 5–11, 1976. a, b
Chiu, C.-S. and Klett, J. D.: Convective electrification of clouds, J. Geophys. Res., 81, 1111–1124, 1976.  a
Cho, H., Iribarne, J., and Richards, W.: On the orientation of ice crystals in a cumulonimbus cloud, J. Atmos. Sci., 38, 1111–1114, 1981. a
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The dynamics of thunderclouds are studied using cloud radar. Supercooled liquid water and conical graupel are likely present, while chain-like ice crystals may occur at cloud top. Ice crystals are vertically aligned seconds before lightning and resume their usual horizontal alignment afterwards in some cases. Updrafts and downdrafts are found near cloud core and edges respectively. Turbulence is strong. Radar measurement modes that are more suited for investigating thunderstorms are recommended.

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