Q1: How closely should the monthly satellite-gauge combined precipitation datasets follow the gauge analysis?

Compared to previous versions, Version 06 IMERG introduces additional coverage at the high latitudes for the precipitation fields in all Runs -- Early, Late, and Final.  IMERG continues to use a merged geosynchronous infrared brightness temperature analysis to provide IR-based precipitation estimates.  The requisite analysis (provided by NOAA/NWS/Climate Prediction Center) covers the latitude band 60°N-S, so a "full" IMERG analysis is possible there.

The following table provides a quick reference for the IMERG variables that can be visualized using Giovanni.

Product

Variable and Description

GPM_3IMERGHHE 30-min averaged data

Merged microwave-only precipitation estimate [Final] Precipitation estimates from combining microwave data from the GMI, TMI, and other partner instruments. How do the various forms of precipitation map into the IMERG "probabilityLiquidPrecipitation" data field? Read more about How do the various forms of precipitation map into the IMERG "probabilityLiquidPrecipitation" data field? IMERG provides a data field that estimates the probability that the retrieved precipitation amount is “liquid”, which is defined to include “mixed” (liquid and solid) precipitation.  In retrospect the field name should have been “ice”, but “liquid” had already been set.  The rational is that mixed precipitation is very rare and transient, so it should be lumped with either “liquid” or “ice”.  Furthermore, the primary effects of “ice” are to 1) prevent the falling precipitation from immediately entering the hydrological system (until it melts), and 2) to create (potentially) d Personalizing Precipitation Data: 5 Questions with Andrea Portier Tuesday, June 9, 2020 Meet Andrea Portier. By day, Portier is an application and outreach coordinator for the Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (GPM). By night — well, when she’s not at work — Portier can be found exploring local national parks and taking community classes. Portier spends her time honing her communication skills to help user communities understand GPM data and apply it to the real-world issues they face. We chatted with Portier to learn how she communicates complex ideas to diverse audiences, why her other career choice would be a wilderness therapy guide, and what advice she would give to... Read More Subscribe to