A differential reflectivity radar hail measurement technique: observations during the Denver hailstorm of 13 June 1984.

Demonstrates a differential reflectivity radar technique for observing hailstorms using measurements obtained during the 13 June 1984 Denver hailstorm. Studies vertical profiles of the mean reflectivity factor and the mean differential reflectivity, for individual and averaged volumed scans. Examination of the reflectivity factor intervals indicates that hail regions are characterised by reflectivity factors above 55 dBZ at 2.5 km MSL, 50 dBZ at 2.75 km MSL and 40 dBZ at 3.25 km MSL. Negative reflectivity factor regions are presumed to be composed of melting hailstones (12 to 40 mm size, falling with largest dimension vertically aligned). Positive regions (greater than ldB) are due to melting hailstones smaller than 12 mm, falling with largest dimension horizontally aligned. (C.J.U.)