addition of altitude, as well. Lightning data is useful in suggesting intensity and organization of convective cells as well trends in thunderstorm activity (particularly growth, and to a lesser degree, decay). It is also useful in the early stages of thunderstorm development. This was especially true when visible and infrared satellite data was delayed, but continues to be useful in detecting thunderstorms in stages of development before there is a substantial radar signature or for areas where radar data is lacking. Coming advances in research and observations should improve forecasts of severe weather and increase warning time. Personal lightning detection systems are also available, which may provide strike time, azimuth, and distance. In addition, lightning prediction systems are available and used mostly by parks and other outdoor recreational facilities, or meteorologists contracted to provide weather information for them. See also National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) Storm Prediction Center (SPC) Warning Decision Training Branch (WDTB) Robert C. Miller, a pioneer in the field of forecasting tornadoes Tropical cyclone observation Weather forecasting References Further reading External links Tornado Detection (NSSL) NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed Tornado Warning Guidance (NWS Warning Decision Training Branch) Supercell Structure and Dynamics (NWS) Tornadogenesis cascade paradigm and schematic (San Francisco State University) An Introduction to Storm Observation and Reporting (NWS) An Online Meteorology Guide: Severe Storms (University of Illinois) Weather Glossary for Storm Spotters (NOAA Technical Memorandum NWS SR-145) Thunderstorms (NWS JetStream Online Weather School) Severe weather and convection Storm Tornado Weather prediction Radar meteorology Weather warnings and advisories Storm chasing fr:Prévision des orages violents#Surveillance