A Satellite Perspective of the June 7-11 2012 Record Breaking Flood Event impacting Alabama and the Florida Panhandle

The NOAA Satellite and Information Service (NESDIS) Satellite Analysis Branch (SAB) provides operational support to the National Weather Service (NWS) by providing interpretive satellite text messages and annotated satellite graphics to assist in forecasting hydro-meteorological hazards such as heavy rain, flash flooding, and heavy snow. This case study evaluates the June 7-11, 2012 heavy rain event that primarily impacted southern Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. During this time period eleven satellite precipitation estimate messages were provided by SAB to the affected NWS River (RFC) and Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs). SAB Briefings and consultations were also provided to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC). Upwards of 27 inches of rain fell over parts of the Florida Panhandle causing widespread flash flooding. Pensacola International Airport recorded its second-highest daily total with 13.13”. The last time more rain was received on a single calendar day in Pensacola was October 5, 1934.

This study looks at the evolution and development of the heavy rain from a satellite perspective. Guidance provided by the SAB to NWS offices during the event is reviewed to determine accuracy and utility and to ascertain possible areas of improvement for the future. Satellite products that are reviewed in detail include the GOES-13 Visible, Infrared (IR), 6.7 micron Water Wapor channel imagery, automated satellite estimate(s) from the Hydro-estimator and Auto-Estimator, the experimental GOES-R RGB product, and the NESDIS Blended TPW (Kusselson, et al., 2009). Other variables considered in the study include the surface to 250 hPa analyses, surface hourly observations for surrounding stations, and radar data. In addition, various model forecasts preceding the event are examined for accuracy of precipitation location and totals.