Challenges & Opportunities for Using GOES R+ Lightning Mapper Data in NWS

The GOES-R satellite will provide a new instrument, the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM). For the first time in geostationary orbit, total lightning will be detected and reported for use in nowcasting, warning, and forecasting. Understanding the new GLM data and it's timely delivery for use in the warning and forecast processes is just the beginning. In order to be used effectively, the GLM data will need to be merged with other data and visualizations to provide the best possible observations and decision-making. The current total lightning capabilities, in combination with GLM observations, will provide rapidly and continuously updating information to forecasters and data assimilation systems.