MONITORING PRECIPITATION AND SNOW COVER USING MULTI-SENSOR SATELLITE AND IN-SITU DATA

In-situ measurements of surface precipitation and snow cover although accurate locally, are often inadequate for mapping at large scales. Satellite remote sensing is considered less accurate than in-situ measurements, but complements in-situ data with more frequent views and much improved spatial coverage. The main goal of this study is to demonstrate the utility of multi-sensor satellite imagery in concert with in-situ and other ancillary data for improved winter weather monitoring and assessment. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s rainfall and snow cover products are presented, followed by a case study of a significant winter rain event over Northern Albania and the surrounding areas.