Satellite diagnosis of thunderstorm probability

Considered is a new approach to the estimation of thunderstorm probability based on satellite measurements in IR-range and synchronous forecast meteorological information. Analyzed is the conformity between the results of thunderstorm detection by different networks. Substantiated is the use of the data of WWLLN and Vaisala global networks of thunderstorm detection for assessing the correctness of satellite thunderstorm probability diagnosis. Demonstrated is the satisfactory correspondence between the data of these networks accumulated during 15 minutes and the results of thunderstorm probability diagnosis on the territory of Russia and Europe carried out using the data from three geostationary satellites. Noted is the utility of new maps of satellite thunderstorm probability diagnosis for increasing the aircraft flight safety.