Radar and lightning detection

The precipitation type (e.g. rain, snow, hail) is a key information for a broad range of areas including the severe weather warnings, the road and aviation safety, the hydrology, and the agriculture. In June 2021, the two-year project PRECIP-TYPE started in order to develop a comprehensive mapping of the precipitation type in real-time, using polarimetric radar observations, numerical modelling outputs, and more. Polarimetric observations are largely available in Belgium with already 2 dual-polarization weather radars operating in Belgium and 3 operating within its close surroundings. On top of that, 2 other weather radars in Belgium will be replaced in the near future and will also make use of the dual-polarization technology.

For the verification of the precipitation type at ground level, the precipitation reports collected through the RMI smartphone app can be used.