Using Goes-R CI to Evaluate Developing Cumulus / weak cells

A line of cumulus clouds developed across western Kansas near/after 18Z. EFP/SPC forecasts indicate this as a favorable area for storm development in the next few hours. For now, the GOES-R CI product is indicating generally low probabilities of convective initiation along this line of towering cumulus (20-60 percent).

goes_r_ci-05071902

One area with a probability of 80 percent developed, at around the same time that a small/weak cell (Z < 35 dbZ) developed in Wichita County. This indicator decreased below 70 percent in the next few products, as the cell generally failed to develop into anything stronger.

goes_r_ci-05071915

So far, the CI product appears to be correctly indicating that large-scale convective development is not imminent quite yet. Also, the CTC product has not shown any indication of rapid cooling, which also matches the current situation.

–Hatzos

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