RHI Cumulonimbus Example

For detailed vertical structure, there is no substitute for a good RHI. The following example shows a cumulonimbus seen with RHI from the southern part of the US in summer.

The RHI shows that this is a powerful, actively growing Cb with top at 13 km (8.1 mi). The echo over-hang and weak echo region on the right indicates a well-organized strong inflow and vertical motion, both characteristic of a severe thunderstorm. The reflectivity core (red is >56 dBZ) indicates a probable hail shaft. An upper level anvil, presumably from another Cb can be seen close to the radar.