Nowcasting with the new generation GOES

Abstract

The improved resolution and dynamic range of the United States' new GOES (Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite) has allowed for the development of advanced image products and nowcasting techniques that far exceed those available from previous generation GOES. Selected of those products, and their applicability to nowcasting, will be shown in this paper. Using the advanced imaging capability of the new GOES, experiments to assess the utility of thirty second, one minute and three minute interval imagery are underway. Such “super rapid scan” imagery has been taken of tornadic thunderstorms, thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, lake effect snow storms and hurricanes. Those special data sets are under analysis to determine their utility for nowcasting. Further, a non-operational demonstration, evaluation and training program that allows for the receipt and analysis of digital GOES imagery and products has been placed at approximately 50 of National Weather Service field offices. Many of those offices now have over one year of experience using real-time GOES digital imagery for nowcasting. This paper will address the successes of that program and its importance in assessing GOES digital imagery and nowcast products, as well as its allowing forecaster input to future product development.