Demonstrating the MSG Volcanic Ash Detection Algorithm during Large-Scale Volcano Eruptions

Over the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa, outbreaks of heavy dust storms occur frequently and create hazards toward air travel, EM/EO instrumentation, and human-related activity and health issues. In a related fashion, recent large-scale volcanic eruptions over Montserrat in the Caribbean and Eyjafjallajokull in Iceland cause similar environmental impacts. During such episodes, forecast and operational personnel require vigilant monitoring capabilities throughout its destructive tenure. Since 2001, the Naval Research Laboratory in Monterey (NRL-MRY) has been monitoring dust and volcano products in near real time through its use of dust-related algorithms, providing image products that are hosted within its public (NexSat) and military (Satellite Focus) websites. Until recently, dust products were processed primarily from MODIS, AVHRR, SeaWiFs and GEO data. Typically, POES sensors (primarily MODIS and AVHRR) provide detailed information from its high resolution and multi-channel array, but with infrequent temporal refresh. In contrast, GEO sensors provide data every 15 – 30 minutes, but with inherently limited radiometric and spatial detail. The combined POES and GEO limitations have frustrated operational forecasters who want the best of both worlds.

NRL-MRY has recently started processing and hosting dust products from the EUMETSAT dust algorithm, using retrieved Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) SEVIRI data. Unlike typical GEO sensors, the SEVIRI multi-channel instrument contains several near IR and IR channels that provide better opportunities for dust detection, for both day and night time viewing. Additionally, 15 minute refresh rates allow for tracking dust in fine detail. Finally, the MSG dust product has been useful in evaluating various dust prediction models. Recent feedback has been very positive from both R&D and operational forecast communities.

This paper will present a case study approach to demonstrate the capabilities of the MSG dust product within heavy dust and volcanic ash episodes. In this study, ancillary products will include MODIS-derived dust and aerosol optical depth imagery, along with COAMPS model dust output. The focus will be on demonstrating the applicability of the MSG dust product toward operations and research.