2. Parameters

Stability Assessment » Showalter Stability Index (SSI) Strengths and Limitations

SSI is relatively easy to compute and is often useful to diagnose environmental instability. However, it has several limitations:

  • It may under-represent the instability if the top of the moist layer falls below 850 hPa.
  • It is intended for use at locations with a station elevation up to about 1000 feet.
  • It does not take into account vertical wind shear, which also affects storm potential.