Chasing winter storms
Scientists from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) are participating in the Investigation of Microphysics and Precipitation for Atlantic Coast-Threatening Snowstorms (IMPACTS) study. The study will use the Particle Habit Imaging and Polar Scattering (PHIPS) airborne cloud probe to collect detailed information on ice crystal habits in order to understand how heavy snowfall events form and develop. Data collected from the study will be used to improve snowfall remote sensing interpretations and modeling capabilities, and aid in the prediction of snowfall. During the study, the NASA ER-2 and P-3 aircrafts will fly in a coordinated pattern, collecting data on the microphysical characteristics of snow particles and the dynamics of winter storms. Ground-based radar, rawinsonde data, and multiple NASA and NOAA satellites will also be utilized. The results of the study will lead to a better understanding of snowband formation, organization and evolution, and improve predictions of winter storms on the US East Coast.
News from the IMPACTS campaign can be followed in Twitter @SnowIMAPCTS and @AgAircraft