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The Forecast Process: Using the Forecast Funnel
This lesson was developed by meteorologist, Dr. Mick Pope, with sponsorship from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM). The lesson is a somewhat broad-brush review of the overall forecast process, but with specific application of the forecast funnel approach as used by Australia's Bureau of Meteorology (BoM). The forecast process components include decision support and communication, use of numerical weather prediction, and applying the forecast funnel approach. The forecast funnel is described in detail, along with the forecaster time pyramid, and it is applied using a BoM forecast polic ...
Instrumentation and Measurement of Wind
This lesson summarizes the science and techniques used to measure atmospheric wind. It presents an overview of the main sensor types for wind, including mechanical, electronic, and drifting-position sensors as well as sensors relying on impact pressure and sensors utilizing timing or Doppler shifts. The advantages and limitations of the sensor types and information about uncertainty and errors are reviewed with a focus on understanding which sensors might be best for particular applications. The lesson concludes with wind measurement applications including turbulence profiles, turbulence flux ...
Met 101: Basic Weather Processes
This lesson provides an overview of basic weather processes, beginning with how the distribution of incoming solar energy helps to establish Earth’s atmospheric circulations. Learners will gain an understanding of the differences between weather and climate, and how Earth’s winds tend to have dominant patterns determined by region. An introduction to atmospheric stability, clouds, precipitation processes, and thunderstorm characteristics is also included, along with an introduction to weather impacts affecting aviation operations.
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.
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.
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 ...
Overview of Watershed and Channel Sedimentation
This lesson provides an overview of the primary influences of watershed and channel sedimentation. In a short narrated portion of the lesson, we explore a section of the Rio Grande watershed and channel in New Mexico using Google Earth imagery, river profiles, and graphic animations. We highlight features of the upland catchments, the river channel, and the Elephant Butte Reservoir. We then demonstrate how environmental factors (climate, geography, land use changes, reservoirs) impact the supply and movement of sediments for the Rio Grande and other rivers. The focus is on the three primary pr ...
Topics in Dynamic Meteorology: Pressure Gradient Force
This module is a learning object on a foundational aspect of dynamic meteorology, the pressure gradient force. As a learning object, it is meant to supplement other teaching material in a course by elucidating a specific concept. The horizontal pressure gradient force is presented through an interactive tool which allows a student to adjust pressures on an idealized surface map and examine the horizontal accelerations produced in response. Three short exercises are provided to reinforce the concepts.
Introduction to Ensembles: Forecasting Hurricane Sandy
This module provides an introduction to ensemble forecast systems with an operational case study of Hurricane Sandy. The module concentrates on models from NCEP and FNMOC available to forecasters in the U.S. Navy, including NAEFS (North American Ensemble Forecast System), and NUOPC (National Unified Operational Prediction Capability). Probabilistic forecasts of winds and waves developed from these ensemble forecast systems are applied to a ship transit and coastal resource protection. Lessons integrated in the case study provide information on ensemble statistics, products, bias correction and ...
Fire Weather Patterns in Australia: Southeast Australia
The module illustrates the typical synoptic pattern influencing fire weather in southeast Australia. A case study provides insight into how experienced forecasters combine the four key ingredients—wind, temperature, dew point temperature, and fuel state—to produce a fire danger index value and resulting forecast policy map. Then, a case exercise allows the learner to practice using weather and fuel data to create a fire weather forecast policy map for southeastern Australia.
Nowcasting for Aviation in Africa
Nowcasting for Aviation in Africa summarizes techniques and best practices for developing area-specific forecasts at very short (0-6 hour) timescales. This 1-hour lesson presents a case study focused on interpreting threats and communicating correct warning information for a weather event affecting multiple airports in Gauteng Province, South Africa. In completing the lesson, the learner will assess the state of the atmosphere, develop a nowcast, monitor conditions, and update/create appropriate nowcast products for aviation stakeholders.
IOM Report, 111. Survey on the Surface, Climate and Upper-air Observations and Quality Management in RA II (Asia)
This publication reports on the results of a survey on the surface, climate and upper-air observations and quality management in Regional Association II (Asia). The survey was conducted as one of the activities for the Pilot Project to Enhance the Availability and Quality Management Support for National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in Surface, Climate and Upper-air Observations, established during the 14th Session of Regional Association II (Asia), held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan in December 2008
IOM Report, 110. Experience of the Japan Meteorological Agency with the Operation of Wind Profilers
This publication discusses the Japanese Meteorological Agency’s (JMA) operational experience with Doppler mode radar wind profilers in Japan, to provide guidance to other WMO Members planning to implement wind profiler networks.
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Evaluating the effects of microphysical complexity in idealised simulations of trade wind cumulus using the Factorial Method
Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics (ACP), Vol. 11. N° 3. Dearden C.; Connolly P.J.; Choularton T.W.; et al. - Copernicus GmbH, 2011The effect of microphysical and environmental factors on the development of precipitation in warm idealised cloud is explored using a kinematic modelling framework. A simple one-dimensional column model is used to drive a suite of microphysics schemes including a flexible multi-moment bulk scheme (including both single and dual moment cloud liquid water) and a state-of-the-art bin-resolved scheme with explicit treatments of liquid and aerosol. The Factorial Method is employed to quantify and compare the sensitivities of each scheme under a set of controlled conditions, in order to isolate the ...
Satellite Meteorology: GOES Channel Selection V2
This module is an update to the previous Satellite Meteorology: GOES Channel Selection module. It reviews the five GOES imager channels and their use, incorporating conceptual visualizations and numerous imagery examples. The module also includes updated information on improvements for the GOES-13, -14 and -15 satellites. Highlights include a higher resolution 13.3 micrometer CO2 channel (GOES-14 & -15), modified spectral response of the visible channel, improved radiometric performance and pixel geolocation, and shortened data outages during the fall and spring satellite eclipse periods.
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Spring Cold Bias of SST and Minimal Wind Mixing in the Equatorial Pacific Cold Tongue
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 6. Lin Peng-Fei; Liu Hai-Long; Li Chao; et al. - Science Press, 2010The authors investigate the relationship between bias in simulated sea surface temperature (SST) in the equatorial eastern Pacific cold tongue during the boreal spring as simulated by an oceanic general circulation model (OGCM) and minimal wind mixing (MWM) at the surface. The cold bias of simulated SST is greatest during the boreal spring, at approximately 3°C. A sensitivity experiment reducing MWM by one order of magnitude greatly alleviates cold biases, especially in March-April. The decrease in bias is primarily due to weakened vertical mixing, which preserves heat in the uppermost layer a ...
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Roll Vortices in the Boundary Layer Caused by a Concave Wind Profile: A Theoretical Study
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 6. Liu Hui-Zhi; Sang Jian-Guo - Science Press, 2010The present study solves a two-layer atmospheric wave equation model with a lower atmosphere concave wind profile and cold-air outbreak over sea, while simultaneously proving that such a wind shear may cause neutral boundary layer roll vortices in the presence of disturbing sources upstream. Without thermal effects, the wind shear-induced waves have band structures at the top of the boundary layer that are similar to cloud street patterns observed over sea. This study proves that dynamic and thermal effects can act independently to initiate the roll vortices in the lower atmosphere. At the sam ...
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Ensemble Simulations of a Nonlinear Barotropic Model for the North Atlantic Oscillation
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 5. Zhang Dong-Bin; Jin Fei-Fei; Li Jian-Ping; et al. - Science Press, 2010A numerical ensemble-mean approach was employed to solve a nonlinear barotropic model with stochastic basic flows to analyze the nonlinear effects in the formation of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The nonlinear response to external forcing was more similar to the NAO mode than the linear response was, indicating the importance of nonlinearity. With increasing external forcing and enhanced low-frequency anomalies, the effect of nonlinearity increased. Therefore, for strong NAO events, nonlinearity should be considered.
Hurricane Strike!™
Designed primarily for middle school students and funded by FEMA and the NWS, this module creates a scenario to frame learning activities that focus on hurricane science and safety. Versions are also available for hearing, motor, and visually impaired students, as well as Spanish-speaking students. Over the course of seven days, Hurricane Erin forms in the Atlantic Ocean, crosses the Florida peninsula, and then makes another landfall at Fort Walton Beach. During these days, the learner is introduced to many basic concepts of atmospheric science, climate, and geography, while also learning some ...
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Promotion of Wind Energy : lessons Learned from International Experience and UNDP-GEF Projects
UNDP, 2010In order to remove barriers to the development of wind energy, the design of the projects integrates some of the lessons learned from existing successful wind policies. These include the necessity of reviewing the regulatory environment
to offer developers clear and expeditious procedures, the importance of giving developers access to data on wind resources.
and the need to increase awareness of
public authorities, companies and the
public through education and training
programmes.
Guidelines for converting between various wind averaging periods in tropical cyclone conditions
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Kepert Jeffrey David; Ginger J.D. - WMO, 2010 (WMO/TD-No. 1555)
S-290 Unit 7: Wind Systems
S-290 Unit 7: Wind Systems outlines general and local winds and their processes. Detailed information is provided about critical fire weather winds, including frontal winds, foehn winds, and thunderstorm winds and the effects of these winds on wildland fires. The module also describes topographic influences on winds, and provides guidelines for estimating winds based on location and fuel sheltering. The module is part of the Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior Course.
Introduction to Climatology
This module provides an overview of climatology, the study of climate. The module begins by examining the drivers that combine to create the climate regions of the world—from those at the mesoscale (local) level to those at the synoptic-scale (continental) and global-scale levels. Examples include locally dominant winds, air masses, fronts, ocean currents, Earth’s rotation around the sun, and latitude. Each discussion of a climate driver has an ‘example/exploration’ segment, where the information is applied to several cities. The module also examines a scheme for classifying the world’s climat ...
North Wall Effects on Winds and Waves
North Wall events refer to high wind and wave events that occur along the north edge of warm, fast, western boundary currents. These events occur along the Gulf Stream off the mid-Atlantic states of the U.S. and along the Kuroshio Current near Japan and Taiwan. This module explores the relationships between atmospheric stability, winds, waves, and ocean currents during North Wall events. Using three different case studies, we examine the relevant aspects of several topics, including the synoptic setting, ocean currents, evolution of the marine boundary layer, growth of ocean waves, and potenti ...
Winds in the Marine Boundary Layer: A Forecaster's Guide
This module is intended for experienced forecasters moving from a land-based area to a coastal or Great Lakes region where both over-land and over-water forecast areas exist. This module highlights the differences between marine boundary layer and terrestrial boundary layer winds. The experienced forecaster is relatively familiar with the boundary layer over land and the associated implications for the wind field. Using this as a base, the module compares this known quantity with the lesser-known processes that occur in the marine boundary layer. Three major topics that influence marine bounda ...
JCOMM Technical Report, 33. Techniques and benefits of satellite data in wind and wave models
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Bidlot J.-R.; Abdalla S.; et al. - WMO, 2006 (WMO/TD-No. 1357)This report documents techniques and benefits of satellite data in wind and wave models. It provides an overview of available satellite wind and wave data and their possible usage based on the questionnaire prepared by the Expert Team on Wind Waves and Storm Surges (ETWS) to collect information on Members’ use of wind and wave satellite data, in particular, regarding type of sensor used, satellite name, real time use, product name, data format, provider, areas of concern, purpose of use, quality control and status of the data use. The compilation of the questionnaires’ replies contributes to d ...
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N°25 - Janvier 2005 - Le vent: vues de près, vues de loin
is an issue of Atmosphériques. Météo France, 2005
Mountain Waves and Downslope Winds
Mountain waves form above and downwind of topographic barriers and frequently pose a serious hazard to mountain aviation because of strong-to-extreme turbulence. This foundation module describes the features of mountain waves and explores the conditions under which they form. Like other foundation modules in the Mesoscale Primer, this module starts with a forecast scenario and concludes with a final exam. Rich graphics, audio narration, and frequent interactions enhance the presentation.
Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographs
This lesson provides a basic understanding of how to plot and interpret hodographs, with application to convective environments. Most of the material previously appeared in the CD lesson, Anticipating Convective Storm Structure and Evolution, developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographs includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. The lesson comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Principles of Convection III: Shear and Convective Storms
This module discusses the role of wind shear in the structure and evolution of convective storms. Using the concept of horizontal vorticity, the module demonstrates how shear enhances uplift, leading to longer-lived supercell and multicell storms. The module also explores the role of shear in the development of mesoscale convective systems, including bow echoes and squall lines. Most of the material in this module previously appeared in the COMET modules developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. This version includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. The m ...
JCOMM Technical Report, 21. Workshop on Wind Wave and Storm Surge Analysis and Forecasting for Caribbean Countries
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC); World Meteorological Organization (WMO) - WMO, 2003 (WMO/TD-No. 1171)1 CD-ROM
Rain Gauges: Are They Really Ground Truth?
It is the first streaming video Webcast released by the COMET Program. This interactive and entertaining presentation serves as a helpful reminder of the problems that can plague rain gauge performance including specifics regarding the widely used ASOS rain gauge. The material is suitable for anyone who deploys gauges or routinely uses precipitation gauge data. A version of this Webcast that can be installed on your computer for local playback is also provided.
Wind, temperature and ice motion statistics in the Wedell Sea
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC); International Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU) - WMO, 1997 (WMO/TD-No. 797)
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CAAMD - Centre africain pour l'application de la météorologie au développement
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Biswas B.C.; Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM) - OMM, 1987 (OMM/DT (FR)-No. 159)
Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation (CIMO). Use of ground-based radar in meteorology (excluding upper-wind measurements) : (report prepared by a working group of the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation)
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Henderson J.P.; Perlat A.; et al. - WMO, 1966 (WMO-No. 193)
CAgM. Windbreaks and shelterbelts : report of a working group of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Karschon R.; Razumova L.A.; et al. - WMO, 1964 (WMO-No. 147)
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