Use of 30-60 Second Resolution GOES Observations to Diagnose In-cloud Processes, Accelerations, Trends in Acceleration, and Patterns

UAH-P-14008-Use of 30-60 Second Resolution Goes Observations to Diagnose In-Cloud Processes, Accelerations, Trends in Acceleration and Patterns

Docket: UAH-P-14008

Technology

Previous research on a GOES 0-1 hour convective initiation (CI) algorithm has used 5-minute and 2.5-minute resolution Meteosat Second Generation observations. In preparation for the GOES-R, 1-minute resolution data has also been collected, though until now this high-resolution data has not been used in existing CI prediction algorithms.

Researchers at UAH have developed a novel method that incorporates 1-minute (or higher) resolution data for nowcasting (producing a 0-1 hour prediction of) convective storms and the hazards they bring, such as hail, lightning, and strong winds.

The use of this higher-resolution data allows previous CI prediction methods to work more efficiently in diagnosing rapidly changing scenes. This is particularly useful for monitoring cloud development and growth, acceleration of cloud and moisture fields, and boundary and feature detection. In addition, single channel (10.35-11.00 µm spectral range) relative soundings of temperature can be created from this data. This is a capability that stands to benefit many other algorithms related to rainfall, lightning and storm severity predictions, etc.

Applications

  • Aviation weather forecasting
  • Short-term weather prediction
  • Numerical weather prediction (NWP) of convective storm development, timing, and location
  • Early detection of severe storms
  • Cell phone weather forecasting applications

Advantages

  • Uses GOES data in addition to radar and NWP data
  • Improves existing CI prediction methods

Status

  • State of Development: Proof of concept
  • Licensing Status: Not available for licensing
  • Patent Status: Patented