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Verification Methods in the NWS National Blend of Global Models
This lesson introduces learners to the methods used in verifying the various weather element forecasts included in Version 1.0 of the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) National Blend of global Models (NBM). This Level 2 lesson is intended for forecasters and users of NWS forecast products; some prior knowledge of numerical weather prediction and statistics is useful. Learners will be introduced to the analysis of record used to verify the NBM. Learners will also explore single event, grid-to-observation, and grid-to-grid verification methods, as well as how to interpret the results using the ...
NWS JetStream: Online School for Weather
JetStream - An Online School for Weather is a free teaching resource covering a wide variety of weather topics and weather safety. It provides educators, emergency managers, or anyone interested in learning about weather with comprehensive, well-organized, colorfully illustrated curricula. Each section or “module” includes “learning lessons", classroom experiments that use common household items demonstrating various aspects of weather. JetStream is developed and maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service and is not produced, owned or ho ...
NOAA’s VDatum: Transforming Heights between Vertical Datums
Produced in collaboration between NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey (NGS) and The COMET Program, this video explains NOAA’s VDatum tool and its role in facilitating height transformations between vertical datums including tidal, orthometric, and ellipsoidal datums. It also provides an overview of different types of vertical datums and how they may be used for different applications with a focus on coastal areas and navigation services. Leaders from NOAA as well as other government agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Arm ...
Statistical Methods in the NWS National Blend of Global Models
This lesson introduces users to the statistics used in generating the various weather element forecasts included in Version 1.0 of the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) National Blend of global Models (NBM). This Level 3 lesson is intended for forecasters and users of NWS forecast products; some prior knowledge of numerical weather prediction and statistics is useful. Learners will be introduced to the analysis of record used to calibrate the NBM’s bias and error estimates. Learners will also explore the downscaling, bias correction, and weighting procedures applied to the model products, an ...
Predicting Convective Cessation for Aviation Forecasters
This module introduces aviation forecasters to a conceptual framework for analyzing, diagnosing and predicting convective cessation and resulting conditions near airports. Users will first learn about five main environments with respect to convection, and three patterns in which these environments are commonly arranged. Next, users are immersed into an adjustable-time case simulator to practice applying the convective environment frameworks to their forecast process, while periodically amending TAFs and responding to warning, storm report and caller interruptions. Finally, a case summary ties ...
SatFC-G: IR Bands, Excluding Water Vapor
This lesson introduces seven of the ten infrared imager bands on the GOES R-U ABI (Advanced Baseline Imager). It examines the spectral characteristics of each band to facilitate a better understanding of band selection and what each band observes, and to shed light on some of the many potential applications. This lesson is a part of the NWS Satellite Foundation GOES-R Course.
The Science of Radio Occultation and the COSMIC Mission
The lesson provides an overview of radio occultation and its contributions to our understanding of Earth's atmosphere as demonstrated by the COSMIC mission launched in 2006. The lesson is divided into three chapters: Chapter 1 describes the science of radio occultation and how atmospheric profiles are obtained. Chapter 2 focuses on the benefits of radio occultation and COSMIC observations for numerous applications related to meteorology, climate, and space weather. Chapter 3 describes the COSMIC-2/FORMOSAT-7 mission and its expected improvements to further inform meteorology, climate, and iono ...
Sea Level Change: Datums and Terminology
This lesson addresses how sea level is determined and applied. It starts with a general discussion of the surfaces that form the basis of measurement, called datums, then looks more closely at the vertical datums that form the basis of height measurements. We cover tidal datums in more depth, including the different datums, their extent, period of record (called a tidal epoch), and common applications. We conclude with a look at some data resources for tidal datums and sea level trends.
Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 2: General Principles in Integrating Climate Change
This lesson describes a common approach used by the United States Bureau of Reclamation to scope a study on integrating climate change information into water resources management and planning. Learners will become familiar with the types of questions that must be addressed for considering climate change impacts when scoping their study. Examples are given for several different water resources mission areas. Note that this is the second of a two lesson series, the first one is titled, "Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 1: Climate Variability and Change."
Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 2: General Principles in Integrating Climate Change
This lesson describes a common approach used by the United States Bureau of Reclamation to scope a study on integrating climate change information into water resources management and planning. Learners will become familiar with the types of questions that must be addressed for considering climate change impacts when scoping their study. Examples are given for several different water resources mission areas. Note that this is the second of a two lesson series, the first one is titled, "Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 1: Climate Variability and Change."
Communicating Forecast Uncertainty
This scenario-based lesson introduces the topic of communicating forecast uncertainty to decision-makers, such as emergency managers, related industry professionals, the public, and other end-users. In a case that spans the lesson, learners begin by developing a forecast discussion using deterministic data, refine it with probabilistic ensemble data, and evaluate how well it conveys uncertainty information. Then they assume several end-user roles, assessing how well the forecast discussion addresses their needs. From there, important research findings on communicating uncertainty are discussed ...
SatFC-G: Visible and Near-IR Bands
This lesson introduces you to the two visible and one of the near-infrared imager bands on the GOES R-U ABI (Advanced Baseline Imager), focusing on their spectral characteristics and how they affect what each band observes. Also included is a brief discussion of the customization of visible enhancements as an important consideration for improving the depiction of various features of interest. This lesson is a part of the NWS Satellite Foundation GOES-R Course.
Sea Level Change: Basics
This lesson describes the physical processes, both natural and human-induced, that lead to changes in sea level. The processes described include climate induced changes in ocean heat content and volume, natural oceanic cycles, and both natural and human-induced changes in coastal land elevation. The learning is enhanced with rich graphics and periodic questions.
Interpreting Climate Outlooks: An Australian Example
Climate outlooks provide probability-based information about expected rainfall and temperatures at timescales of months or longer. This lesson demonstrates how monthly and seasonal outlooks issued by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology can be combined with other information for use in decision-making by persons in climate-sensitive sectors. The lesson explains the main drivers affecting Australia's climate—ENSO, Indian Ocean Dipole, Southern Annular Mode, and the subtropical ridge—and explores how the status of the climate drivers can affect the outlook maps as well as confidence in the outlo ...
Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 2: General Principles in Integrating Climate Change
This lesson describes a common approach used by the United States Bureau of Reclamation to scope a study on integrating climate change information into water resources management and planning. Learners will become familiar with the types of questions that must be addressed for considering climate change impacts when scoping their study. Examples are given for several different water resources mission areas. Note that this is the second of a two lesson series, the first one is titled, "Climate and Water Resources Management, Part 1: Climate Variability and Change."
Forecasting Clear Air Turbulence for Aviation
This case-based, interactive lesson teaches a process for forecasting clear air turbulence (CAT) and applies it to a case that occurred over the U.S. Information about the synoptic patterns that generate CAT and the products and indices used to identify it are woven into the case. Some of this information is presented in optional sections intended for those who are unfamiliar with the material or want a refresher. The lesson is aimed at national and international forecasters who make aviation forecasts.
Best Practices in Tropical Cyclone Briefings
Crafting clear, concise and effective messages focused on customer needs is a crucial skill in every decision-support situation. Tropical cyclones that threaten a coastline have the potential to inflict devastating damage to communities and communicating relevant weather information will assist decision-makers in their plans and preparation work. This lesson examines how to effectively prepare for the hurricane season and then focuses on how best to support NWS partners through meteorological briefings during tropical cyclone events. Basic familiarity with probabilistic forecast guidance is re ...
Best Practices for Minimizing Errors during GNSS Data Collection
Aimed at surveyors and GIS professionals who use geodetic-quality GNSS equipment to determine positions for land planning, coastal monitoring and other purposes, this video covers best practices for reducing errors in the areas of: 1. location and environment, 2. equipment setup and 3. observation times and accuracy checks. This resource is hosted on COMET's YouTube Channel.
Ocean Acidification
The chemistry of the world’s oceans is changing. Ocean acidity is creeping upward, a result of rising atmospheric carbon dioxide. The added carbon dioxide depletes seawater of carbonate, a chemical constituent of minerals that form the shells and structures of animals including corals, molluscs, plankton, and others. The accelerating impacts are expected to reverberate through the marine food web. Most people are unaware of ocean acidification and its expected impacts. This lesson will educate policy makers and university students about its causes and consequences. The lesson explains the chem ...
The Importance of Accurate Coastal Elevation and Shoreline Data
Produced in collaboration between NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey (NGS) and The COMET Program, this video explains the role of topo-bathy lidar products in NOAA’s mapping and charting program, and how these products provide a critical dataset for coastal resilience, coastal intelligence, and place-based conservation. Federal, state and local decision-makers, coastal zone managers, community planners as well as general and scientific users of mapping products will find this 4-minute video helpful for understanding the benefits of coastal elevation data produced by NGS. This resource is hosted o ...
WMO corporate visual identity guidelines
The corporate visual identity guidelines are aimed at strengthening the Organization’s identity through branding.
Pacific Islands Meteorological Services in Action : A Compendium of Climate Services Case Studies
SPREP ; Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI); Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland ; et al. - SPREP, 2016
Project Management Guidelines and Handbook : Part I – Project Management Guidelines, Part II – Project Management Handbook
The Guidelines represent WMO’s approach to project management and outline key stages of the project life cycle that WMO staff should follow. The Handbook aims to help WMO to improve concrete processes and procedures related to project management and provides detailed guidance on how to go about each stage of the project life cycle.
Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS) with global coverage
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); United States Agency for International Development (USAID); et al. - WMO, 2016Flash Flood Guidance System with global coverage (Res 21, Cg-XV) enhances early warning capabilities of the NMHSs, currently covers fifty two (52) countries and more than two billion people around the world saving lives and decreasing economic losses.
Handbook of Drought Indicators and Indices
The purpose of this handbook is to cover some of the most commonly used drought indicators/indices that are being applied across drought-prone regions, with the goal of advancing monitoring, early warning and information delivery systems in support of risk-based drought management policies and preparedness plans. These concepts and indicators/indices are outlined below in what is considered to be a living document that will evolve and integrate new indicators and indices as they come to light and are applied in the future. The handbook is aimed at those who want to generate indicators and indi ...
Climate Services for Supporting Climate Change Adaptation : Supplement to the Technical Guidelines for The National Adaptation Plan Process
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) - WMO, 2016 (WMO-No. 1170)Because of the current and projected impacts on climate due to the high levels of greenhousegas (GHG) emissions, adaptation is a necessary strategy at all scales in a changing climate. At its 17th session, the Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) established the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) process as a way to facilitate effective adaptation planning in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and other developing countries. The four key elements that need to be undertaken in the development of NAPs are: Laying the groundwork and addressin ...
The World Meteorological Organization at a glance
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) - WMO, 2006-[...], 2016
Система оценки риска возникновения быстроразвивающихся паводков (СОРВБП) с глобальным охватом
Всемирная Метеорологическая Организация (BMO); National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); United States Agency for International Development (USAID); et al. - BMO, 2016Система оценки риска возникновения быстроразвивающихся паводков (СОРВБП) с глобальным охватом (резолюция 21, Кг-XV) расширяет возможности НМГС для заблаговременного предупреждения, охватывает сейчас 52 страны и более двух миллиардов человек во всем мире, спасая жизни и снижая экономические потери.
Sistema guía para crecidas repentinas (FFGS) con cobertura mundial
Organización Meteorológica Mundial (OMM); National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); United States Agency for International Development (USAID); et al. - OMM, 2016El Sistema Guía para Crecidas Repentinas con cobertura mundial (Resolución 21, Cg-XV) dota a los Servicios Meteorológicos e Hidrológicos Nacionales de mejores capacidades de alerta temprana y abarca en la actualidad a 52 países y a más de 2 000 millones de personas en todo el mundo, salvando vidas y reduciendo pérdidas económicas.
Système d’indications relatives aux crues éclair (FFGS) - A couverture mondiale
Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM); National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); United States Agency for International Development (USAID); et al. - OMM, 2016Le Système d’indications relatives aux crues éclair à couverture mondiale (Résolution 21, Cg-XV) vise à renforcer l’aptitude des SMHN à émettre des alertes précoces. Il couvre actuellement cinquante-deux (52) pays et plus de deux milliards de personnes dans le monde, et permet de sauver des vies et de réduire les pertes économiques.
دلیل المؤشرات والأرقام القیاسیة للجفاف
المنظمة العالمية للأرصاد ; Global Water Partnership (GWP) - المنظمة العالمية للأرصاد, 2016 (مجموعة مطبوعات المنظمة-No. 1173)الغرض من ھذا الدلیل ھو تغطیة بعض أكثر المؤشرات/ الأرقام القیاسیة للجفاف شیوعاً التي یجري تطبیقها في جمیع المناطق المعرضة للجفاف، بهدف تعزیز نُظم المراقبة والإنذار المبكر وتقدیم المعلومات الداعمة لسیاسات إدارة الجفاف وخطط التأھب لھ القائمة على المخاطر. وھذه المفاھیم والمؤشرات/ الأرقام القیاسیة مبینة أدناه فیما یُعتبر وثیقة تداولیة سوف تتطور وتضم مؤشرات وأرقاماً قیاسیة جدیدة مع ظهورھا وتطبیقها في المستقبل. والدلیل موجھ إلى أولئك الذین یریدون إعداد مؤشرات وأرقاماً قیاسیة بأنفسهم، وكذلك إلى أولئك الذین یریدون فحسب الحصول على نواتج أُعدت في مكان آخر واستخدامها. والمقصود ھو استخدامھ من جانب الممارسی ...
Manuel des indicateurs et indices de sécheresse
Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM); Global Water Partnership (GWP) - OMM, 2016 (OMM-No. 1173)Le manuel présente les indicateurs et les indices les plus couramment employés dans les régions sujettes à la sécheresse dans le but de faire progresser le suivi, l’alerte précoce et la diffusion de l’information à l’appui des politiques de gestion des situations de sécheresse et des plans de préparation axés sur les risques. Les méthodes et les notions qui les accompagnent y sont brièvement exposées. Ce document est appelé à évoluer et à s’enrichir à mesure que de nouveaux indicateurs et indices seront élaborés et mis en pratique. Il intéressera les personnes qui souhaitent définir leurs prop ...
حملة عن املنظمة العاملي ة لألرصاد اجلوية
المنظمة العالمية للأرصاد - المنظمة العالمية للأرصاد, 2006-[...], 2016
世 界 气 象 组 织 概 览
世界气象组织 (WMO) - 世界气象组织 (WMO), 2006-[...], 2016
Коротко о Всемирной Метеорологической Организации
Всемирная Метеорологическая Организация (BMO) - BMO, 2006-[...], 2016
La Organización Meteorológica Mundial de un vistazo
Organización Meteorológica Mundial (OMM) - OMM, 2006-[...], 2016
L'Organisation Météorologique Mondiale en bref
Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM) - OMM, 2006-[...], 2016
Справочник по показателям и индексам засушливости
Всемирная Метеорологическая Организация (BMO); Global Water Partnership (GWP) - BMO, 2016 (BMO-No. 1173)Цель настоящего справочника заключается в том, чтобы описать самые распространенные показатели/индикаторы засушливости, которые применяются в подверженных засухам регионах, с целью совершенствования систем мониторинга, заблаговременного предупреждения и представления информации в поддержку политических мер в области борьбы с засухами с учетом рисков и в поддержку планов обеспечения готовности. Эти концепции и показатели/индексы кратко изложены в нижеследующем тексте, призванном быть интерактивным документом, который в дальнейшем будет развиваться и включать новые показатели и индексы по мере и ...
干旱指标与指数手册
本手册旨在涵盖适用于干旱易发区域最常用的干旱指标/指数，目的是促进监 测、早期预警和信息提供系统，以支持基于风险的干旱管理政策和备灾计划。 这些概念和指标/指数将在下文进行介绍，它是一份动态文件，随着新指标和指 数出现及在未来的适用性加以更新及整合。本手册面向那些希望制作其自身指 标和指数的机构以及针对那些只愿意获取和使用为其它地区所制作的产品的机 构。本手册适用于一般干旱从业人员使用（例如，气象/水文部门、资源管理者 及其它各级决策者），并旨在作为一个起点，表明哪个指标/指数可用，并在全 球投入实际使用。此外，本手册的制定考虑到了干旱风险管理过程。然而，本 出版物并非旨在推荐一套“最佳”指标和指数。对指标/指数的选择是根据与利益 攸关方关注的影响最密切关联的干旱具体特点。
Manual de indicadores e índices de sequía
La finalidad del presente manual es tratar algunos de los indicadores e índices de sequía de uso más habitual en las regiones más propensas a las sequías, con el objeto de impulsar sistemas de vigilancia, de alerta temprana y de suministro de información que respalden los planes de preparación y las políticas de gestión de la sequía basados en riesgos. Estos conceptos e indicadores o índices se describen a grandes rasgos a continuación, en lo que se considera un documento dinámico que evolucionará e incorporará nuevos indicadores e índices a medida que estos salgan a la luz y se apliquen en el ...
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WMO Prioritizes Gender Equality
Bulletin, Vol. 64(2). WMO, 2015We must better understand the needs and use the full capacities of both women and men to meet development challenges and serve communities in a world increasingly subject to the impacts of climate change and weather extremes. This will not only improve our understanding of weather and climate but also our use of weather and climate information.
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Interview: Vladimir Ryabinin, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO
Bulletin, Vol. 64(2). WMO, 2015Vladimir Ryabinin of the Russian Federation was appointed as the new Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO at the level of Assistant Director-General (ADG) of UNESCO on 1 March 2015. Mr Ryabinin went to IOC from WMO, where he was a Senior Scientific Officer in the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) from 2001 to 2015. His years of experience with WMO will surely benefit the close cooperation between the two organizations. The Bulletin is pleased to introduce him to our readers through the interview below. 1
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Climate Services for the Energy Sector: A New Priority Area for the GFCS
Energy systems are the engine of economic and social development. Their investments represent a sizeable portion of a country’s GDP. Indeed, energy is essential to practically all aspects of human welfare, including access to water, agricultural productivity, health care, education, job creation and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, energy sector emissions, such as CO2, account for the largest share of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Emissions reduction targets under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are expected to significantly increase dema ...
关于世界气象组织有关程序和规则的常任代表参考指南
本章概要地介绍了世界气象组织（以下简称WMO或本组织）的性质及其职能。其目的是帮助本组织会员的常任代表更好地了解WMO和常任代表的职责。
Reference Guide for Permanent Representatives of Members with the World Meteorological Organization on Relevant Procedures and Practices of the Organization (WMO-No. 939)
This Guide explains the World Meteorological Organization procedures and practices, and is designed to serve as a ready reference for Permanent Representatives of Members with WMO, and for the senior staff of NMHSs, especially those dealing with international affairs.
Manuel du Système mondial de télécommunications : Annexe III du Règlement technique de l’OMM
Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM) - OMM, 2015 (édition 2015 mise à jour en 2020; OMM-No. 386)
Manual del Sistema Mundial de Telecomunicación : Anexo III al Reglamento Técnico de la OMM
Organización Meteorológica Mundial (OMM) - OMM, 2015 (Edición de 2015, actualización de 2020; OMM-No. 386)
Наставление по Глобальной системе телесвязи : Дополнение III к Техническому регламенту ВМО
Всемирная Метеорологическая Организация (BMO) - BMO, 2015 (Издание 2015 г. Обновлено в 2020 г.; BMO-No. 386)
Manual on the Global Telecommunication System : Annex III to the WMO Technical Regulations
A manual intended to facilitate cooperation in meteorological telecommunications between Members; to specify obligations of Members in the implementation of the World Weather Watch Global Telecommunication System; and to ensure uniformity and standardization in the practices and procedures employed in achieving these.
Guide to Participation in Radio-frequency Coordination
This Guide provides the general description of the main ITU processes related to radio-frequency coordination, regional structure and regulatory framework that govern the use of the radio-frequency spectrum globally2 and guide the national management of the radiofrequency spectrum as well as management of satellite orbits. More detailed information on which frequencies are important to meteorology and related activities is available in the joint WMO/ITU publication entitled Use of Radio Spectrum for Meteorology: Weather, Water and Climate Monitoring and Prediction
WIGOS Technical Report, 2015-01. Impact and benefits of AMDAR temperature, wind and moisture observations in operational weather forecasting
This report reviews the impact of AMDAR observations on operational NWP forecasts at both regional and global scales that support national and local weather forecast offices across the globe.
TCP, 23. Typhoon Committee Operational Manual : Meteorological Component
The Operational Manual consists of the text and the appendices. Items included in the text relate to the Typhoon Committee agreement, in particular, basic information for executing meteorological operation, whilst the appendices contain national practices and procedures (it is felt that the Member concerned should have the right to be able to change without having to get prior formal agreement of the Typhoon Committee) together with detailed and technical information for meteorological operation. Information described in WMO official publications such as Manuals is only referred to and not i ...
Quantitative risk assessment of the effects of climate change on selected causes of death, 2030s and 2050s
World Health Organization (WHO) - WHO, 2015This report provides a quantitative assessment of the health impacts of climate change and takes into account a subset of the possible health impacts, while assuming continued economic growth and health progress. Even under these conditions, it concludes that climate change is expected to cause approximately 250 000 additional deaths per year between 2030 and 2050; 38 000 due to heat exposure in elderly people, 48 000 due to diarrhoea, 60 000 due to malaria, and 95 000 due to childhood undernutrition. Results indicate that the burden of disease from climate change in the future will continue t ...
Use of Probabilistic Guidance in Local Tropical Cyclone Wind Forecasting
This lesson describes the role of forecasters in supporting emergency managers during tropical cyclones with a focus on the wind hazards. It provides an overview of the wind speed products produced by the National Weather Service, including how they are used to create local wind forecasts. Learners will practice interpreting probabilistic wind speed guidance and conveying appropriate wind speed information to decision-makers using projected scenarios of hazardous wind events. Developing messages for emergency managers and the public that include the potential wind speed, threat, and impact inf ...
Understanding Marine Customers, 2nd Edition
Understanding Marine Customers, 2nd edition, introduces the different marine forecast customers and discusses what forecast information they need to know and why they need to know it. A better understanding of the needs of the marine forecast customer will lead to better daily forecasts. The 2nd edition expands upon marine customer base to include more nearshore users, such as beachgoers, surfers, and sea kayakers.
WMO Product Access Guide
The Product Access Guide is a web-based resource maintained by the World Meteorological Organization to (i) facilitate online search for quality-controlled, documented satellite-based data products from providers worldwide, related expert groups, and training material, (ii) enhance the visibility of satellite data products and related material; (iii) address insufficient awareness of users, especially in developing countries. The Product Access Guide complements the WMO Information System and allows a more targeted search experience than Google or the GEO portal. This resource is made availabl ...
Satellite-Derived Climatology Products for Monitoring Convection Over West and Central Africa
A weather forecaster’s knowledge of climatology is important to the success of a forecast, especially where convection is involved. That’s particularly true over Central and West Africa where convection has a strong diurnal cycle and usually develops over particular geographic regions and during specific time intervals. The lesson describes satellite-derived cloud climatology products and several global instability indices, all of which can be integrated with other products to forecast convection. Although the lesson uses examples of climatology products from specific months, it makes the full ...
Introduction to the NWS National Blend of Global Models
The National Blend of Global Models was developed to utilize the best available science and provide a consistent National Weather Service forecast product across the U.S. This lesson describes the background and motivation for the National Blend and includes comparisons of Blend forecasts with current guidance. The lesson also offers a short summary of future plans and training related to the National Blend.
Assessing NWP with Water Vapour Imagery
You've seen it happen repeatedly. Forecasters have a tough forecast ahead of them. But how are they supposed to know which model data will be the best one to help them come to a conclusion about the situation? In situations like this, the first step should always be to assess the model data against a set of current observations that should show a 1-to-1 relationship with the model output. Which variable should be plotted? On which surface? Which current observations will make the most sense to assess against? If you know the answers to some, but not all of these questions, find these answers a ...
Operational Models Encyclopedia
The availability of numerical guidance from NWP models has been an important component of operational forecasting for decades. For many, the output from this numerical guidance was produced by a mysterious “black box”. Rules for using and adjusting the guidance for operational forecasters were often subjective “Rules of Thumb” based on experience rather than based on quantitative analysis. To open up this “black box”, we produced this web-based “Operational Models Encyclopedia” linking both generic information on how NWP models work, and specifics on physical parameterizations, dynamics, and d ...
Forecasting Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge
This lesson introduces forecasters to the various probabilistic guidance products used by the National Hurricane Center to forecast storm surge. It provides an overview of how these probabilistic surge products are created, their purposes, and why they are preferred to deterministic-only style guidance for specific events. The lesson also provides practice in correctly interpreting probabilistic storm surge guidance at various phases of an event. Basic familiarity with probabilistic forecast guidance is required. This online lesson is part of the Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge: Forecasting and C ...
Introduction to Meteorological Charting
This lesson provides a brief overview of surface and upper-air data and how these data are plotted on meteorological charts. The content introduces various charting and reporting techniques, including station models, contour analyses, streamlines, and upper air maps. Examples cover both the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere and provide learners with opportunities to practice recognizing frequently used weather symbols. Supplemental materials include three Weather Symbol Identification drills. Completing these drills may require approximately 1-1.5 hours above the length of time estim ...
Geospatial Infrastructure for Coastal Communities: Informing Adaptation to Sea Level Rise
Aimed at community planners, emergency managers, and other coastal zone decision-makers this video will explain how using geospatial information already available through NOAA, combined with strategic local investments in infrastructure can provide communities with the data needed to confidently plan for future sea-level changes. This resource is hosted on COMET's YouTube Channel.
Tropical Cyclone Forecast Uncertainty
This lesson introduces learners to the uncertainty and errors in forecasting the track, timing, and intensity of tropical cyclones. It provides an overview of how the National Hurricane Center’s cone of uncertainty is constructed, as well as its uses and common misconceptions. Learners will explore the influences of track, timing, and intensity forecast errors on potential tropical cyclones impacts. The lesson offers suggestions on how to communicate tropical cyclone forecasts knowing their inherent uncertainty. This online lesson is part of the Tropical Cyclone Storm Winds: Forecasting and Co ...
Using Scatterometer Wind and Altimeter Wave Estimates in Marine Forecasting
Scatterometers and altimeters provide a variety of space-based observations that are useful for marine analysis and forecasting as well as other applications. Key among the products are ocean surface winds from scatterometers and significant wave heights from altimeters. This lesson describes the basics of scatterometers and altimeters, including how they work, what they measure, and how scatterometer winds and altimeter significant wave heights are derived. It then discusses some of the challenges in using the estimates, such as dealing with ambiguities and rain contamination. The lesson also ...
WMO Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR)/Space
OSCAR/Space, the “satellite” component of the WMO OSCAR resource, contains updated quality-controlled information on past, present and future satellite missions, instruments and related characteristics, covering a period from 1960 up to 2050, which adds up to 500+ satellites and 800+ instruments dedicated to Earth Observation and Space Weather. In addition, OSCAR/Space provides expert assessments of the applicability of the various instruments for particular measurements. This resource can be used as a reference for studies, as a gap analysis tool, as support for planning, and for educational ...
NWP Essentials: NWP and Forecasting
This lesson introduces forecasters to the complex and multifaceted process for creating a forecast. It also discusses how NWP fits into that process. In addition, the lesson provides a broad overview of the basic components of NWP and how they combine to produce a model forecast.
Storm Surge and Datums
This lesson introduces forecasters to the orthometric and tidal datums used to describe tropical cyclone storm surge measurements and forecasts. It provides a general overview of how to interpret storm surge forecasts using various vertical datums. This online lesson is part of the Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge: Forecasting and Communication course.
Marine Weather Services Incident Response and Decision Support
Marine Weather Services Incident Response and Decision Support provides guidance for forecasters tasked with supporting oil or chemical spills and other marine-focused incidents. The lesson follows an example spill event to help demonstrate marine forecasters' responsibilities for coordinating with emergency managers, other NOAA line offices, and governmental agencies and outlines best practices related to effective communication.
NWP Essentials: Structure and Dynamics
This lesson is focused on how a model forecast and the interpretation of that forecast, is affected by the basic design of the model. Topics include how meteorological variables are represented in grid point and spectral models, fundamental differences between hydrostatic and nonhydrostatic models, horizontal resolution of orographic and free-atmosphere features, vertical coordinate systems and how they affect the vertical resolution of features in the model forecast.
Enroute Icing
Aircraft icing has resulted in numerous accidents, some fatal. The problem is due, in part, to a lack of awareness on the part of aviation forecasters (and others) that icing is imminent. The lesson addresses this issue by presenting a process for forecasting enroute icing for aviation and applying it to a case over the Continental U.S. The process involves gaining situational awareness of potential icing areas and making a first forecast of their locations and flight levels; comparing the first forecast to NWP forecasts; and adjusting as needed. To reach a wide audience and stay current, the ...
Determining the Onset and Risk of Tropical Cyclone Winds
This lesson introduces forecasters to the probabilistic guidance products used by the National Hurricane Center to assess tropical cyclone wind threats. It provides an overview of how these probabilistic wind speed products are created, their purposes, and how to interpret them. The lesson also provides practice in determining the total risk and timing for location-specific peak wind events. This online lesson is part of the Tropical Cyclone Storm Winds: Forecasting and Communication course.
Gridded Products in the NWS National Blend of Global Models
This lesson introduces users to the five different guidance products that will be included in Version 1.0 of the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) National Blend of global Models (NBM). The primary audience for this lesson includes forecasters and users of NWS forecast products; some prior knowledge of numerical weather prediction is useful. Learners will explore how model guidance from the Global Forecast System, Global Ensemble Forecast System, Canadian Meteorological Centre Ensemble, Ensemble Kernel Density Model Output Statistics (MOS) and gridded GFS MOS is produced. The strengths and l ...
Microwave Remote Sensing: Land and Ocean Surface Applications, 2nd Edition
This lesson introduces the concepts and principles basic to retrieving important land and ocean surface properties using microwave remote sensing observations from polar-orbiting satellites. Section one reviews the advantages of microwave remote sensing from polar-orbiting platforms and briefly highlights some of the unique spectral characteristics that allow for differentiation between various surface types and properties. Subsequent sections present a more in-depth look at the derivation and application of microwave products that quantify four different land and ocean surface properties and ...
Introduction to Climatology for the Tropical Pacific Islands
This lesson provides information on climatology—what it is, the factors that create an area's climate, and the sources and uses of climate information. Focused specifically on tropical Pacific islands, the content covers the key features influencing climate in that region and includes examples for four locations distributed across the tropical Pacific Ocean, both north and south of the equator. The lesson provides a basic introduction to tropical climatology intended for a wide range of users, from meteorology technicians, forecasters, and scientists, to those in industries or sectors influenc ...
Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI): What’s Different from the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI)
This brief lesson provides an overview of the AHI on Himawari and highlights its differences from the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI). It discusses AHI’s improved capabilities in spectral coverage, spatial resolution, and imaging interval over the MTSAT-2 imager; the differences in spectral coverage and scan strategy between AHI and ABI and the impact on products; and how AHI data and products benefit forecasters in Alaska, Pacific Region, and CONUS. Note that the lesson complements COMET’s GOES-R ABI lesson, which should be taken before going through this lesson.
Two Right Feet? Understanding the Difference Between U.S. Survey Feet and International Survey Feet
This video explains the difference between the U.S. survey foot (sFT) and the international survey foot (iFT) and the importance of this distinction when working with map projections. It will be helpful to surveyors, planners and anyone who needs to convert map coordinates from meters to feet. This resource is hosted on COMET's YouTube Channel.
Forecasting Heavy Rains and Landslides in Eastern Africa
Good rainfall draws many people to settle across the eastern Africa highlands for farming and other businesses. However, factors such as steep terrain, logging, livestock grazing, agriculture, and construction, have increased erosion and contributed to less stable slopes. These factors can lead to devastating landslides and mudslides, especially during episodes of very heavy rain. Forecasting and monitoring heavy rainfall is challenging, especially in mountainous regions that have few surface observations. This make satellite data critical for meteorologists and hydrologists forecasting for th ...
NCAR Climate Data Guide
The Climate Data Guide provides concise and reliable information on the strengths and limitations of the key observational data sets, tools and methods used to evaluate Earth system models and to understand the climate system. Citable expert commentaries are authored by experienced data users and developers, enabling scientists to multiply the impacts of their work and the diverse user community to access and understand the essential data. This resource is made available courtesy of NCAR's Climate and Global Dynamics Division and is not produced, owned or hosted by UCAR/COMET.
Principles of Celestial Navigation
This lesson provides a basic introduction to celestial navigation for navigators, sailors, and others interested in the topic. It begins with the relationship between celestial coordinates and Earth coordinates and examines key celestial navigation parameters—geographic position, sextant altitude, observed altitude, azimuth, and computed altitude—that can be used to identify to a ship's position. A U.S. Navy navigator demonstrates the main celestial sights performed over the course of a day, including the morning three-star fix, morning Sun line, Local Apparent Noon Sun line, afternoon Sun lin ...
Understanding Heights and Vertical Datums
Aimed at scientists, engineers, modelers and other technical users of GIS/mapping applications, this lesson provides a basic understanding of different vertical datums, how they are defined, some of their strengths and weaknesses and how to choose the appropriate datum for a given application. The lesson starts with basic definitions of height and vertical datums and guidance on choosing and working with the appropriate datum for a given situation. It then provides a conceptual introduction to ellipsoidal, geopotential and tidal datums including appropriate uses, examples and pros and cons.
Extreme High Swell Events on the Moroccan Atlantic Coast
High swell events can develop far from the coast under cyclonic conditions, and take several days to travel to land. If early warnings are not issued, they can take an area by surprise and have a devastating impact. This lesson aims to improve the ability of marine forecasters to forecast extreme marine events related to high swells. It does so by providing background information on winds and waves, and presenting a process for monitoring and forecasting high swell events using a variety of data. These include ASCAT scatterometer wind data and the ECMWF Extreme Forecast Index (EFI) product, wh ...
Introduction to Tropical Meteorology, 2nd Edition: Chapter 6 Vertical Transport
This chapter examines vertical transport of heat, moisture, momentum, trace gases, and aerosols, including the role of tropical deep convection and turbulence. Diurnal and seasonal variations in surface fluxes and boundary layer depth are examined. The boundary layer is compared over the ocean, humid, and dry tropics, including its role in dispersing chemicals and aerosols. Boundary layer clouds are examined in terms of their connection to sub-cloud layer properties. Comparisons are made between heat and moisture transport under a variety of convective modes such as mesoscale convective system ...
Introduction to Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge
This lesson introduces forecasters to the physical processes and impacts of tropical cyclone storm surge. It provides an overview of the factors that affect storm surge, how it is measured, and the limitations associated with storm surge data. This online lesson is part of the Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge: Forecasting and Communication course.
Introduction to Geodesy and Mapping
This lesson covers the topics of geodesy, datums, map projections, and map coordinate systems. Geodesy addresses the shape of the earth: the topographic surface, geoid, and best-fit ellipsoid. Datums addresses the position and orientation or the best-fit ellipsoid and the resulting coordinates. Map projections addresses the different ways to project an ellipsoidal datum onto a flat surface. Each projection has unique properties and each has pros and cons. Coordinate systems addresses the different ways that a rectangular coordinate system can be superposed on latitude-longitude graticule.
Using ASCAT Wind and Other Data in Marine Forecasting
This case study lesson demonstrates the use of scatterometer wind and, to a lesser extent, altimeter significant wave height products in marine forecasting. A brief introduction to cold fronts and their impact on weather and sea state conditions sets the stage for the main part of the lesson, the case study. The case follows the passage of a cold front over the South Atlantic Ocean on 23 and 24 November 2013 when the Polarstern research vessel was transiting the area. Learners use ASCAT wind and Jason significant wave height data to help determine current conditions and evaluate GFS and WAVEWA ...
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