This document discusses infrared satellite images and how they can be used to analyze weather patterns. Infrared images detect heat, showing colder clouds and precipitation in brighter whites and greys, while warmer surfaces appear darkest. Infrared imagery has the benefit of working at night and can help identify precipitation-producing clouds. When combined with synoptic charts and radar images showing rainfall patterns, infrared satellite images provide insight into cloud formations and precipitation.

1. Now : attempt to describe and analyse this image

2. Satellite images can also be in ‘infra-red’ Visible image Infra-red image

3. Characteristics of ‘infra red’ images Infra-red images basically pick up heat. The colder it is the brighter the white Deep cloud that reaches the cold levels of the upper troposphere shows up as bright white. This is the precipitation producing cloud Low cloud is not as cold and shows up as grey. This cloud is less likely to produce precipitation The surface is warmest and will be the darkest colour A drawback is that low cloud, fog and the surface may appear similar A benefit is that infra-red imagery works at night!

4. The same satellite pass in visible and ‘infra-red’ 04.30 am in May Which is which?

5. Synoptic charts show the ‘weather’ situation

6. Now compare the synoptic chart with the satellite image

7. Radar can be a useful addition Radar shows precipitation patterns Blue, green, yellow to red is the sequence from least to most intense rainfall

8. This colour enhanced version of a satellite image includes an overlay of weather features This helps to explain the pattern of clouds and rain