The inherent spatial and temporal variability of rainfall makes rain one of the most difficult geophysical quantities to measure anywhere (especially over the oceans). However, understanding the distribution and dynamics of oceanic rainfall patterns is a major component of determining global/regional water cycles and climate change. In addition to rainfall rate, a detailed knowledge of precipitation type is also necessary. Satellite-based measurements of rainfall provide global coverage of rainfall distribution; however, these measurements need to be verified by surface rainfall data.
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