Spatial distribution of rainfall rates

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Abstract
A 29‐storm sample of 1‐minute rainfall rates was obtained with an Illinois network of 50 recording gages in 100 square miles during the warm seasons of 1952 and 1953. These gages were equipped with enlarged orifices and 6‐hour charts to provide nearly instantaneous spatial patterns of rainfall intensity on the network. The data were used to determine quantitative estimates of rainfall rate gradients, sampling errors in the measurement of mean areal rates, and spatial correlation patterns. The derived relations are considered first approximations for midwestern warm‐season storms. It was concluded that the spatial variability of rainfall rates is frequently so great within and between convective storms that the rain gaging equipment and operational requirements for accurate rate measurements may be prohibitive for most users when sampling areas are 100 square miles or greater. Consequently it is recommended that the use of radar in combination with recording gages be investigated as a possible solution to the measurement problem.

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