Satellite observations of global MCSs/cloud/precipitation (CloudSat,TRMM/GPM, and beyond)

Convective storms are found throughout the tropics and mid-latitudes and these storms range from isolated events to highly organized storm complexes. Convective storms are the sole source of precipitation in many regions of our planet and are recognized as playing such a vital role in the Earth’s weather and climate system.  Advancing our understanding of these storm systems is viewed as one of the major challenges of the atmospheric sciences in the coming decade. We have made limited progress in using global satellite observations in understanding convection, how it affects clouds and precipitation and its influence on the environment. This talk will review this progress, underscore key gaps in our understanding of clouds and convection and highlight opportunities for progress.