MEDIA RELEASE PR35831
Vaisala Introduces a Unique Global Lightning Dataset
GENEVA, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-AsiaNet/ --
The dataset will provide lightning information throughout the globe to
serve the world's meteorological institutions and other weather-dependent
users.
Consisting of lightning sensors distributed throughout the globe, the
coverage and performance of Vaisala's Global Lightning Dataset (GLD360) is
unique, global, and real-time. GLD360 outperforms satellite lightning
detection by enabling uniform global coverage and by providing the timeliest
information on rapidly evolving severe weather situations. The network
detects over two thirds of all lightning strikes coming to the surface of the
earth and provides peak current information for cloud-to-ground lightning
events. Additionally, the dataset provides information over oceanic regions
where there is a shortage of real time weather observations.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
"We have over 20 years of experience in thunderstorm systems in North
America, and are now extremely pleased to launch a data solution that serves
our customers on a global scale," says Kjell Forsén, the President and CEO of
Vaisala.
The potential application areas of Vaisala's GLD360 data range from
thunderstorm identification, hydrology and hurricane forecasting to improved
high sea identification and climate change research. Additionally, aviation
and marine routing will benefit from improved lightning data provision.
"Over the past five years, we have demonstrated that assimilating
lightning data into mesoscale weather models can improve short-to-medium term
forecasts. The superior coverage and performance of GLD360, particularly over
data-sparse ocean regions, provides a unique opportunity to improve synoptic
and mesoscale forecasts on a global scale," says Dr. Steven Businger from the
University of Hawaii.
The Global Lightning Dataset (GLD360) is the result of research
collaboration with Stanford University. Vaisala's leading expertise in
environmental measurement combined with best possible technological knowhow
has made this real-time, global network a reality.
"It is rewarding to see that this joint scientific and technological
innovation will benefit a large number and variety of users in different
parts of the world - not only the meteorological community but also climate
change research," stated Dr. Ryan Said from Stanford University.
Vaisala arranges a webcast press briefing about the GLD360 on Monday
August 31 at 14:00 CET in connection with the World Climate Conference in
Geneva, Switzerland. The webcast can be viewed at
About Vaisala
Vaisala is a global leader in environmental and industrial measurement.
Building on more than 70 years of experience, Vaisala contributes to a better
quality of life by providing a comprehensive range of innovative observation
and measurement products and services for meteorology, weather critical
operations and controlled environments. Headquartered in Finland, Vaisala
employs over 1200 professionals worldwide and is listed on the NASDAQ OMX
Further information
Martti Husu
Executive Vice President, Meteorology
Tel. +358-40-5483-423
Helena Marjaranta
Senior Vice President, Communications
Tel. +358-40-581-9102
SOURCE: Vaisala
Translations:
NEWS 
