Abstract
This paper addresses some of the early results of a study of various storm-top features by means of A-Train observations. While most of these features have already been documented in the 1980''s and 1990''s, there are still some uncertainties in their interpretation. These features include:
1) specific features in the IR brightness temperature field (coldest spots related to overshooting tops, warm spots forming downwind of them, cold-U shapes or cold rings),
2) overshooting tops,
3) increased cloud-top reflectivity in the
3.7/3.9 μm bands (related to cloud-top microphysics),
4) above-anvil plumes and jumping cirrus,
5) gravity waves, and
6) lower stratospheric water vapor provided by storm activity. The goal of this study is to achieve a better understanding of these phenomena, using the unique instrumentation of some of the A-Train satellites. Results of this study will contribute to a better interpretation and utilization of satellite data when monitoring and nowcasting deep convective storms.