Lightning is more than nature's fireworks display.
Research has shown that lightning is an excellent early warning indicator
for approaching severe storms.
This data visualization shows actual lightning measurements captured from a remarkable array of ground based lightning detectors
capable of tracing how lightning propagates through the atmosphere.
From space the intersection of lightning and its corresponding cloud fronts becomes clear.
That's why on the nation's new weather satellite called GOES-R
an advanced lightning detector system called GLM
will begin surveying the entire nation for atmospheric flashes.
according to project maagers this technology could provide valuable minutes of critical warning time
in advance of approaching storms.