Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

Water Vapor Imagery Analysis for Severe Weather

Other contributors: Scott Bachmeier, Scott Lindstrom

Introduction

The primary objective of this session is to maximize the information available from the GOES water vapor imagery during severe weather episodes, and how to effectively utilize this information with other available datasets.

Learning objectives:

• 6.5 / 6.7 µm water vapor imagery
  • Identification of shortwaves / jet streaks
  • Cloud cover / clearing for destabilization
  • Identification of gravity waves
  • Storm induced dark zones
• 7.4 µm water vapor imagery
  • Mid-level jet streaks
  • Relationship to elevated mixed layer

There is a post-training WES simulation jobsheet associated with this training.

Training Session Options

NOAA/NWS students – to begin the training, use the web-based video, YouTube video, or audio playback options below (if present for this session). Certificates of completion for NOAA/NWS employees can be obtained by accessing the session via the Commerce Learn Center

1. Audio playback (recommended for low-bandwidth users) – This is an audio playback version in the form of a downloadable VISITview and can be taken at anytime.

   Create a directory to download the audio playback file (268 MB) from the following link: http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/visit/training_sessions/water_vapor_imagery_analysis_for_severe_weather/water_vapor_imagery_analysis_for_severe_weather_audio.exe

   After extracting the files into that directory click on either the visitplay.bat or visitauto.bat file to start the lesson. If both files are present, use visitauto.bat

2. YouTube video:

References/Additional Links

• Talking points are available for this lesson and may be printed out to easily review the session in detail at any time.
• CIMSS GOES “Realtime” Weighting Functions
• CIMSS CRAS Model Output
• GOES-R simulated 6.95 µm channel from NSSL WRF-ARW model.
• GOES-R simulated 7.34 µm channel from NSSL WRF-ARW model.
• CIMSS GOES-R NSSL WRF-ARW simulated bands.
• GOES-R Proving Ground NSSL-WRF Simulated ABI Bands
• Farrell, R.J., and T.N. Carlson, 1989: Evidence for the role of the lid and underrunning in an outbreak of tornadic thunderstorms. Mon. Wea. Rev.,117, 857-871.
• Ellrod, Gary P., 1989: A water vapor image feature related to severe thunderstorms. Western Region Technical Attachment, 89-23, Satellite Applications Information Note 89/1.