Computerized Mesoanalysis of a Severe Sprite-Producing MCS

T. Theodore Fujita developed the "art" and science of mesoanalysis, with profound implications for the study of severe storms and other local weather systems. His techniques allowed the fusion of disparate data sets in (quasi)three-dimensional representations of complex atmospheric phenomena.

Today, computerized systems have been developed which in effect attempt to replicate his pioneering techniques. Data fusion systems are an integral part of modern mesoscale simulation and forecasting systems. They allow the ingest and assimilation of data sources ranging from NEXRAD Level II radar, GOES digital satellite imagery, profiler winds, METARS, and lighting data. Advanced interactive visualization systems allow analysts to display, animate and most importantly, analyze the results to obtain new insights into storm systems.

In this example, we perform a complex assimilation of all available data about a large mesoscale convective system in Nebraska using the University of Oklahoma ADAS (APRS Data Assimilation System) software. This storm, influenced by smoke from Mexican fires, produced extraordinarily high numbers of positive cloud-to-ground lightning flashes and mesospheric sprites. ADAS, and a visualization system called EWB-Air, provide an interactive, time-dependent view of this complex storm system.

Whether today's computerized mesoanalysis techniques come close to equalling the quality of Fujita's products, the audience will have to decide for itself.