For understanding satellite images and the current and future weather associated with
them, the factors discussed above point to information that is helpful to a full analysis.
The cloud patterns from a GOES image, or series of GOES images, will show the longer
wave pattern with troughs and ridges, as well as any pre-existing cyclones. A surf a c e
map will show the existence of low pre s s u re centers, surface cold and warm fronts, as
well as any stationary fronts or regions with strong temperature gradients. A chart of the
m i d - t ro p o s p h e re (500 or 700 mb) will show the location of short wave troughs that may
be embedded in the large scale flow. Finally, an upper air chart (200 or 300 mb) will
show the location of the jet stream and any jet streaks that are present. With this infor-
mation, the presence of a mature extratropical system is easily recognized (figure 25)
and areas conducive to new cyclone formation can be identified (figure 26).
f i g u re 26.
Possible Cyclone Developmentarea of strong gradient in
surface temperature,
doesn't have to be a fr ont (1)- At surface
- region of strong temperature gradient (often a stationar y front)
- In mid-troposphere
- long wave trough just upstream (west) of area of strong surface
temperature gradient- shor t w ave trough embedded in larger-scale wave
- At tr opopause
- jet stream advances from west with embedded jet streak
(2)(2)jet stream (3) (2)