A high-resolution unified observational data product of mesoscale convective systems and isolated deep convection in the United States for 2004–2017

Abstract. Deep convection possesses markedly distinct properties at different spatiotemporal scales. We present an original high-resolution (4 km, hourly) unified data product of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) and isolated deep (IDC) in the United States east Rocky Mountains examine their climatological characteristics from 2004 to 2017. The is produced by applying updated Flexible Object Tracker algorithm hourly satellite brightness temperature, radar reflectivity, precipitation datasets. Analysis shows that MCSs are much larger longer-lasting than IDC, but IDC occurs about 100 times more frequently MCSs, with a mean intensity comparable MCSs. Hence both MCS essential contributors Mountains, although significantly characteristics. concentrates summer Southeast peak late afternoon, while significant all seasons, especially for spring Great Plains. spatial distribution amounts varies season, diurnally, generally peaks during nighttime except Southeast. Potential uncertainties limitations also discussed. useful investigating atmospheric environments physical processes associated types systems; quantifying impacts on hydrology, chemistry, severe weather events; evaluating improving representation climate models. available https://doi.org/10.25584/1632005 (Li et al., 2020).