Overview: Fusion of radar polarimetry and numerical atmospheric modelling towards an improved understanding of cloud and precipitation processes

Abstract. Cloud and precipitation processes are still a main source of uncertainties in numerical weather prediction climate change projections. The Priority Programme “Polarimetric Radar Observations meet Atmospheric Modelling (PROM)”, funded by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG), is guided hypothesis that many relate to lack observations suitable challenge representation cloud atmospheric models. Such can, however, at present be provided recently installed dual-polarization C-band radar network national meteorological service synergy with radars other instruments supersites similar networks increasingly available worldwide. While polarimetric potentially provide valuable in-cloud information on hydrometeor type, quantity, microphysical processes, models employ complex modules, considerable knowledge gaps exist interpretation optimal microphysics model process formulations. PROM coordinated interdisciplinary effort increase use data assimilation, which requires thorough evaluation improvement parameterizations moist As an overview article inter-journal special issue “Fusion polarimetry modelling towards improved understanding processes”, this outlines achieved during past 2 years gives perspectives for next 4 years.