Use of GLM Data in Radar Data-Sparse Areas

[21:30 UTC] As a cluster of strong to severe convection moves east of the immediate Albuquerque area, GLM data came in handy as the storms moved east of some terrain and the 0.5 beam from KABX became blocked (as seen in Fig 1. below). In fact, during this time, GLM flash extent density was increasing fairly rapidly, which would help forecasters in an operational sense when used in tandem with other datasets (such as MRMS composite reflectivity). In this case (as well as many others), GLM data provides a supplemental dataset for monitoring storm activity in the absence of traditional radar interrogation techniques.

 

Fig 1: KABX 0.5 Z showing beam blockage just east of the radar site.

Fig 2: GLM Flash Extent Density (flashes/5min) (UL), Average Flash Area (UR), Total Energy (BL) and GOES-16 Channel 13 (LR).

Rosie Red