SBC Session 276: A Review of December 2021 Great Plains and Midwest Severe Weather Event

Session Preview: This SBC session will explore how multiple satellite products — including traditional Dust RGBs, CVD Dust RGB, GeoColor, and infrared techniques — can support operational blowing dust detection and warning decision-making. Using case studies from the Plains, presenters will compare how these products help identify dust onset, distinguish dust from clouds and smoke, and track rapidly evolving plumes during both daytime and nighttime events. The session will also highlight operational challenges tied to sparse surface observations, burn scars, convective outflows, and transportation impacts, while discussing future opportunities for improved early warning and situational awareness. About the Presenter: Amanda Wekesser is a Meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Omaha, Nebraska. She brings 15 years of experience, with almost eight of those in the National Weather Service. Amanda’s focus on dust storms and blowing dust events stems from her time at the Goodland, Kansas office, where local research done by she and her colleagues has led to better prediction of dust events on the High Plains. Amanda has a Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master’s degree in Strategic Leadership from Black Hills State University. About the SBC: The SBC Seminar Series is held weekly on Thursdays and provides an opportunity for scientists across the NOAA satellite community to share topics of interest with their peers. Presentations may cover applications of satellite data in the field, new developments in polar and geostationary programs, or any other satellite-related subject the community wishes to discuss. To receive updates on upcoming sessions, posted recordings, and other SBC announcements, you can subscribe using the form linked here. The series is organized and run by the TOWR-S team. Access the SBC Sessions Archive here, and submit feedback on any previous session here. About TOWR-S: The Total Operational Weather Readiness–Satellites (TOWR-S) team helps NOAA/NWS forecasters effectively use satellite data to support real-time decision-making. Through systems engineering, integration, training, and field-driven support, the team ensures new satellite capabilities transition smoothly into operations. TOWR-S develops and maintains tools such as the TOWRpro RPM, ISatSS, and other tools that enhance how satellite products are delivered and applied in mission. Forecasters can explore these resources—and additional capabilities like VuSkew, the Mission Map, and reference procedures—on the TOWR-S Portal, accessible here: https://geotowr.nws.noaa.gov The team also conducts user engagement on behalf of NESDIS program offices and the NWS Office of Observations, including emerging activities such as the SBC Seminar Series, to help keep the field connected with the latest satellite advancements. Questions on configuring satellite products or on the RPM, slack us at #towr-s.