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These images show “data never before available to forecasters,” NOAA said in a statement today.

The satellite's new capabilities from the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) mean forecasters can predict severe weather more accurately. in this in turn could help disaster preparedness and response to tornadoes and hurricanes, according to NOAA.

\"During heavy rain, [the satellite] data will show when thunderstorms are stalled or if they are gathering strength,” according to NOAA. “When combined with radar and other satellite data, GLM data may help forecasters anticipate severe weather and issue flood and flash flood warnings sooner.”

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