Topographically Induced Convective Snowbands over the Baltic Sea and Their Precipitation Distribution

Convective snowbands over the Baltic Sea and its bays are examined to gain insight into snowband characteristics and precipitation distribution. A general description of the physical mechanisms responsible for snowband formation there is provided, as well as a discussion of coastal-precipitation maxima. A number of cases during the winters 1984/85–1987/88 are also examined to provide their meteorological characteristics. Recent radar studies suggest that snowfall maxima occur over the water and that observed coastal maxima are only extensions from snowfall maxima over the sea. In addition, strong winds and drifting snow common in convective band situations cause large errors in conventional precipitation measurements. Radar provides a necessary tool for studying the precipitation distribution to overcome difficulties in measuring snowfall.