A previous blog post discussed the use of GOES-16 1-min VIS and IR imagery during warning operations. Below is an example of a vertically stacked 2-panel display of GOES-16 VIS and IR imagery (and ENI Total Lightning data, warnings) for morning severe storms in the Dakotas. The 2-panel display has proven useful for monitoring convective trends during warning operations alongside radar data, especially with 1-min data. This is especially feasible nowadays with the larger/wider AWIPS displays now in NWS offices. In the example below, persistent storm top bubbling in the VIS along with obvious OT and enhanced V/U in the IR indicate continued strong updrafts. Gravity waves atop the anvil are also noted in the VIS.

Figure 1: 19 July 2017 2-panel GOES-16 VIS/IR with ENI total lightning and NWS convective warnings overlay. Full resolution: https://satelliteliaisonblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/07/20170719_2p_8_anno.gif

The thunderstorm complex maintained its strength as it shifted to the south and east, producing damaging winds along its path.

Figure 2: GOES-16 1-min 0.64 um VIS. Full resolution: https://satelliteliaisonblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/07/20170719_ia_vis3.gif

– Bill Line, NWS

“The GOES-16 data posted on this page are preliminary, non-operational data and are undergoing testing. Users bear all responsibility for inspecting the data prior to use and for the manner in which the data are utilized.”