Data Products: Derived Stability Indices

 caption follows:
GOES-16 derived stability indices product from July 1, 2017, including lifted index (upper left), convective available potential energy (upper middle), total totals (upper right), K-index (lower left) and Showalter index (lower middle).
Download product algorithm theoretical basis document (ATBD)

The derived stability indices such as convective available potential energy (CAPE), lifted index (LI), total totals (TT), Showalter index (SI), and the K-index (KI) are computed from the retrieved atmospheric moisture and temperature profiles. These indices aid forecasters in nowcasting severe weather by providing them with a plan view of these atmospheric stability parameters. Forecasters use this information to monitor rapid changes in atmospheric stability over time at various geographic locations, thus improving their situational awareness in pre-convective environments for potential watch/warning scenarios.