Course Info: Using Satellite Imagery to Identify Cold-Core Upper Air Lows in the Tropical Pacific

Using Satellite Imagery to Identify Cold-Core Upper Air Lows in the Tropical Pacific  

Course Description

This brief lesson forms part of a series of short-form weather analysis and forecasting examples for oceanic tropical regions. The lesson focuses on the detection and monitoring of cold-core upper air low pressure systems over the tropical Pacific region using satellite imagery. The benefits of using water vapor imagery and the Airmass RGB in the detection of cold-core upper lows are highlighted while learners compare the effectiveness of NWP data to satellite products. Learners will apply their NWP and satellite interpretation skills as they are challenged to locate upper air low pressure systems. This short training can serve to complement other satellite and synoptic weather system-based training in the tropics. 

Intended Audience 

The lesson is intended for new forecasters and meteorological technicians moving into forecasting. University faculty and students, and meteorologists in the tropical and marine environments, could also benefit from this training. The content will also be useful to people new to satellite imagery, products, and their applications. 

Publication Date

February 7, 2025

Questions or Comments? 

We welcome any comments or questions you may have regarding the content, instructional approach, or use of this lesson. Please e-mail your comments or questions to Andrea Smith (asmith5@ucar.edu). For technical support, please visit our Registration and Support FAQs.