I thought it would be interesting to see how well NUCAPS data would be available with Tropical Storm Cindy in the northern GOM considering drier air aloft is wrapping into eastern parts of the system, and is generating perhaps increased instability in partially cleared areas. The first image is a simple 0.64 um GOES-16 image from around the time the NUCAPS data were available, at about 19Z.
The next image below shows 925 mb Theta-e observations around the system, where available.
Notice that in the areas with more absence of clouds in the astern flank of the system and wrapping into SE-S Louisiana...there is a distinct gradient of theta-e according to the data. Also, in NE Texas, where there was some partial clearing, this gradient was also noted in the low-lvl theta-e field. However, also notice the relative higher values of theta-e in SE Texas, near and just west of Houston. Not only did this show up in the 925 mb theta-e field, but also in the 850 mb layer...
This area of relatively higher theta-e that developed over the land surface would then wrap into the circulation and help to induce deeper convection during the afternoon. This loop of 0.64/10.34 um imagery shows this development of deeper convection on the W-NW side of the circulation subsequently. Although, it should be pointed out that there could have been a number of additional factors that helped to contribute to the subsequent increase in deep convection.
Kris W
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