Yesterday we had the opportunity to view the PGLM data southeast of Lubbock, Texas courtesy of the West Texas Lightning Mapping Array. The results were interesting. At past Experimental Warning Programs, we have seen flash extent densities of over 80 flashes for the Oklahoma LMA which updates every minute. However, yesterday, the PGLM maxed out at 41 flashes for the storms that developed. This was less than we had expected, based on previous years with one minute data. The environment was interesting as these were elevated thunderstorms.
Although lower than viewed in the past, this maximum did precede the full development of the storms, although storm reports are hard to come by as this is a low population region. Overall, this was a good dry run for today (May 8th) as we will be active in the western portions of the Oklahoma LMA today and will have the chance to fully try out the PGLM observations and the lightning tracking tool.
The PGLM observations at 2312 UTC showing a maximum flash extent density of 35 flashes (blue grid box).
The corresponding radar reflectivities from the Lubbock radar at 2321 UTC. Note that the PGLM was greatest with the core of the main storm.
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