Analyses of NLDN and OTD Data

Four panel image of NLDN and OTD data analyses. The most relevant panel is the upper right which shows the IC:CG ratio computed from an analyses of OTD satellite and NLDN data (5/95-6/99). There is a bullseye in IC:CG ratio just north of the proposed STEPS region. The Goodland area is in very close proximity to this maxima. There is a large positive gradient in the IC:CG ratio from the Front Range to the CO/KS border. This is intrepreted as indicating increasing updraft strength and likely severity as you move eastward. From case studies and modeling, we know that the IC:CG ratio is very high in severe storms (i.e., it is a signature characteristic of most severe weather). If so, then this analyses of IC:CG analyses further supports the notion that the Goodland area is an ideal place to study the electrical and lightning characteristics of severe thunderstorms. Provided by Dennis Boccippio (NASA/MSFC).