Water Vapor Satellite Imagery Definition

See the latest united states water vapor weather satellite map.
Water vapor satellite imagery definition. Thus even though water vapor is an invisible gas at visible wavelengths our eyes can t see it and at longer infrared wavelengths the fact that it emits so readily between roughly 6 and 7 microns means the radiometer aboard the satellite can see it. Water vapor imagery is created using a wavelength sensitive to the moisture content in the atmosphere. This video describes how water vapor satellite imagery is used by meteorologist examples provided. This short course helps you combine the water vapour channel with your understanding of fluid dynamics to bring a new point of view to your meteorological.
A the visible image depicts clouds stretching from the gulf of mexico northeastward into canada. This web site should not be used to support operational observation forecasting emergency or. The ineractive map makes it easy to navitgate around the globe. Images a b and c are examples of visible and infrared and water vapor satellite images respectively valid for the same time.
Water vapor imagery is used to analyze the presence and movement of water vapor moisture in the upper and middle levels of the atmosphere. The wavelength spectrum used to detect water vapor is in the 6 7 to 7 3 micrometer wavelength range. The upper and middle levels of the atmosphere are from about 650 mb to the top of the troposphere. In this imagery bright blue and white areas indicate the presence of high water vapor or moisture content whereas dark orange and brown areas indicate little or no moisture present.
This self paced interactive tutorial enables learners to discover practical uses for water vapor imagery from weather satellites. Water vapour imagery brings the shallow water model into plain sight. The module introduces the concept and function of the water vapor channel of satellite imagery and. Imagery and loops on this site are intended for informational purposes only they are not considered operational.