Overview
The Categorical Convective Outlook is produced by the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center (SPC) for the purpose of showing areas of anticipated convective activity. It not only shows areas of general thunderstorm development but specifies which areas, if any, have a risk for organized severe thunderstorms. The risk level for severe thunderstorms is notated as anywhere from "Marginal" to "Enhanced" to "High". Although this product is not produced specifically for aviation, it is highly useful for anticipating any areas of highly organized severe storms.
For anyone living in areas especially prone to severe weather, the Categorical Convective Outlook is an excellent resource during storm season to prepare a plan ahead of time to keep you and your family safe - especially when the threat level is "enhanced" or higher.
Examples
The most recent Day 1 Categorical Convective Outlook is shown below. To see the full-resolution version and to see Day 2, Day 3, or Day 4-8 charts, use the last link in the References list.
