Satellite-based detection of overshooting cloud tops using infrared window channel brightness temperature

An overshooting convective cloud top is a domelike protrusion above a cumulonimbus anvil and signifies strong troposphere shear and intense updrafts.The deep convective storms with overshooting tops are capable of producing hazardous weather conditions such as aviation turbulence,heavy rainfall,large hail,damaging wind,tornado and so on.This paper took a heavy rainfall process in the north of Anhui province on 6 Sep 2010 for example.Based of satellite infrared window channel brightness temperature,overshooting tops was detected and local analysis prediction system(LAPS) of the high temporal and spatial resolutions was used to compare.The results are shown as follows: the convection system which caused this heavy rainfall process is a strong thunderstorm which accompanies overshooting cloud tops;LAPS mesoscale data proved the presence of the overshooting cloud tops.