Identification and characterization of hailstorms over France using DPR-GPM sensor

Severe weather events, particularly hailstorms with large hydrometeors, cause heavy losses worldwide. The south of France is one of the European regions most affected by these hydrometeors and is also one of the most studied because an extensive hailpad network of detection devices that has been in operation there for more than three decades. These direct observations are extremely useful because provide a very complete and reliable "ground truth". Space-based sensors are becoming increasingly important in monitoring hailstorms. Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is an international mission designed to advance precipitation measurements from multispectral sensors. The GPM core satellite carries a powerful and unprecedented Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) for studying 3D precipitation characteristics. Furthermore, it improves the accuracy of precipitation estimation and facilitates the analysis of the microphysical structure of clouds. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the DPR sensor capability in identifying hailstorms. Data from more than 1000 hailpads during eight field campaigns in southern France were used. We identified eight hailstorms over France where DPR data were coincident with ground-based observations from hailpad network during 2014–2021. In addition, variables provided by the DPR sensor indicative of hail presence were studied. The Ku band demonstrated greater capacity in identifying hailstorms. Storms with larger reflectivity values (≥50 dBZ, Ku band), both near the surface and throughout the vertical column, were those with a more clearly defined vertical structure and thus more powerful convective development. The intensity of these hailstorms was confirmed with the ground-based data. This work could contribute to enhancing the detection and prediction of hailstorms, thereby helping to mitigate the associated risks.