Meteorological Physical Background
To understand the different cloud structures seen in the satellite images several relevant conceptual models for different types of summer convection are explained. A short overview about the most common stability indices is given, too.
- Single cell
Single cells are the smallest and simplest thunderstorm structures. In the case study single cells can only be found in the initial stage of the convection. However, knowledge about the convective processes within a single cell makes it easier to understand multi cell or super cell structures.
- Multi cell
A multi cell complex is a combination of several single cells that are connected with each other. Multi cells are most common during summer convection in Middle Europe.
- Super cell
Throughout 27 July 2006 some super cells developed. The physical background of such convective phenomena are given in this chapter.
- Squall line
The conceptual model of a squall line can be found here. During the afternoon a squall line developed.
- Outflow boundary
This case study shows an example of an outflow boundary. This phenomenon will be briefly described in this chapter.
- Flanking line
This case study exhibits at 14 UTC a flanking line. A short description will be given in this chapter
- Lifted Index (Physical method)
In this case study the Nowcasting product "Lifted Index" is discussed. In this chapter you will find more information about its interpretation and derivation from MSG-data.
- Potential instability and KO-Index
In this case study the KO-Index as a stability parameter is used. The physical background of this index can be found here.
- Stability indices
There are other indices that have been developed to illustrate the potential for convection within an air mass based upon a radiosonde or model derived sounding.
They are presented in this chapter.
- Nakamura gusts
In this case study we consider gusts which were derived from radiosoundings. The method of Nakamura is a highly sophisticatgeed method for that.
- Stability indices
There are other indices that have been developed to illustrate the potential for convection within an air mass based upon a radiosonde or model derived sounding.
They are presented in this chapter.
- Enhancement of convection by PV
This conceptual model is rather common for summer convection. The link leads you to detailed descriptions about the relevant physical processes and about interpretation techniques in satellite images.