Satellite-observed features of a mesoscale convective complex over SE Europe

On 24 May 2009, a large size mesoscale convective system crossed south-eastern Europe causing severe weather, heavy precipitation, and strong wind. The system met both spatial and duration criteria of a mesoscale convective complex (MCC). The case was analysed using different image processing techniques based on the high spectral resolution of Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellite data. First, an automatic cloud tracking algorithm was applied on successive infrared images to objectively characterize the life cycle of the MCC and analyse the temporal evolution of several morphological, positional, and spectral parameters. Then, satellite data were processed and visualized as single channel, channel differences, RGB (Red-Green-Blue) composite, and ‘blended multi-layer’ images to reveal important information on the development and cloud-top structure and microphysics of the MCC. Lightning data were also used as a measure of intense convective activity in the MCC. The MCC exhibited extraordinary characteristics from the satellite point of view related to its evolution, vertical development, and structure. The results of this study showed how the use of different processing methods of multispectral MSG imagery can provide valuable information in both studying and nowcasting MCCs.