Measuring annual precipitation with a radar rain gauge in severe mountain conditions
The aim of this article is to describe the experience gained while using alternative technology for measuring annual precipitation in severe mountain conditions without a source of electrical energy. For this purpose, a Lufft WS100 radar precipitation sensor was installed in Šumava in 2020 at an altitude of 1270 m above sea level. The measurements so far have shown evident advantages; for example, maintenance free sensor, detailed measurement step, and distinction of the type of precipitation. The question remains how accurate the measurement is, when during some precipitation episodes the radar precipitation sensor probably overestimates its measurements. Accurate comparison with other measurements is difficult in these mountain ridge conditions. On the other hand, the radar sensor also gives accurate measurements during some precipitation episodes, which we verify by a non-heated tipping bucket rain gauge located within the station and also by measuring the height of the snow. Using these proxy data, systematic error was excluded. Measurements will continue for a more detailed evaluation. The radar sensor is, among other things, part of the monitoring of Kaplický potok in Boubín National Nature Reserve, where runoff is also monitored. From this point of view, information about precipitation and its type is important for the evaluation of the hydrological properties of the basin.
