The DBZ on the Image is Decibels
When the radar echo reaches the precipitation, the larger the raindrops, or the more raindrops there are, the greater the DBZ value and the heavier the precipitation.
An Introduction to Weather Map Symbols and Terminology
By Rachelle Oblack, About.com Guide
Radar Intensity Colors on a Weather Map
Radar Echo Intensity shows the amount of precipitation in an area by assigned a series of colors to indicate heavy or light precipitation including hail, rain, and snow.
NOAA National Weather Service
Radar intensity is a way to "see" through rain. A pulse of energy is beamed through a cloud and the amount of echo returned will give the intensity of precipitation. The echo is actually a reflection of the energy and a computer will generate a color code to indicate the amount of precipitation.
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- The Tools of Meteorologists - Weather Map Symbols and Terminology
- Weather Maps Use Symbols for Ease and Understanding
- Fronts and Air Masses
- Cloud Cover in a Weather Station Model
- The Symbols Used for Cloud Species
- Precipitation - Weather Map Symbols Used by Meteorologists
- Radar Intensity Colors on a Weather Map
- Wind Barbs Show Wind Direction and Speed in Knots
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