Although it is not yet possible to predict in advance exactly when and where a tornado will develop, meteorologists using radar and weather satellite information can predict conditions that are favorable for a tornado or severe thunderstorm. And when it comes to tornados, even a 15-minute warning may be the difference between life and death. Today, the predictions are much more scientific and accurate. Since weather satellites were first put into orbit in the 1970s, the space observation network has been invaluable in helping meteorologists observe what is happening in our atmosphere. New satellites allow meteorologists to study winds and temperatures at various levels of the atmosphere over remote areas where other measures do not penetrate.
Meteorologists rely mainly on two types of satellites.
Thus they are able to collect continuous data of a certain area. The improved resolution and dynamic range of GOES allows for improved image products and virtually real-time forecasting. The GOES provides visible and infrared images of weather systems and meteorologists can detect subtle differences in humidity, cloud patterns and wind speed that can indicate an approaching storm. The new generation of GOES allows for imaging every 15 minutes under normal conditions and about every 7.5 minutes when severe weather threatens. In special cases, imagery over tornado thunderstorms and hurricanes can be obtained every 30 seconds.