Global Campus
The WMO Global Campus E-Library
The WMO Global Campus initiative is proud to offer this WMOLearn Library of resources. This library provides a searchable collection of educational resources, including WMO publications and education and training materials from various contributing organisations and individuals. Search by WMO competency framework, Main Topics, Region and Country, and/or Nature of Information to find materials useful for training or self-directed learning.
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WMO Global Campus resources provided on this Site are provided “as is”, without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including, without limitation, warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. The WMO specifically does not make any warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any such resources.
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GOES-16/JPSS Case Exercise: Monitoring the Rhea Oklahoma Grassland Fire
The current GOES-R and JPSS meteorological satellites have improved capabilities for enhanced fire detection that include more effective monitoring of fire starts, evolution, and smoke. This lesson provides forecasters and others with the opportunity to become more familiar with both GOES-R and JPSS satellite products (including the longwave-shortwave IR difference, Fire Temperature RGB, GeoColor, GOES-R Fire Mask, JPSS Active Fire, and others) during the onset of a large grassland fire event, known as the Rhea Fire, that affected western Oklahoma from April 12-18, 2018. Interactions and quest ...
Introducing the FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 Satellite System - Next Generation Observations for Weather and Climate
The latest-generation Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2) provides high-resolution observations of Earth's atmosphere, including the ionosphere. In this video, scientists and mission planners introduce the instrumentation used and describe the collaborations that made the COSMIC-2 mission possible. These experts describe how COSMIC uses a technique called radio occultation—making use of existing navigation satellite signals passing through the atmosphere to provide detailed measurements of temperature, pressure, and water vapor. They ex ...
What's New in NBM v3.2
The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) National Blend of Models (NBM) is scheduled to be upgraded to version 3.2 in November 2019. It includes the first probabilistic blended guidance for temperature, precipitation, snow, and ice. There are more blended forecast products for aviation, marine, water resources, fire weather, winter weather, and tropical weather. Version 3.2 uses more model components to improve guidance, and introduces a new Guam domain. For a transcript, see What’s New in NBM v3.2. (https://www.meted.ucar.edu/nwp/blend_v32_video/NBM_v32_script.pdf)
Basic Satellite and NWP Integration
NWP is one of the most important forecasting tools in our toolbox. Yet identifying when/where it isn’t capturing reality is difficult. In the short-term forecasting range, it is important as a forecaster to identify when/where NWP output isn’t matching reality. Then you can make appropriate changes to the forecast output. To find those mismatches anywhere in the world, one of the best tools is satellite imagery. In this lesson, we will focus on a few cases using satellite imagery to help identify mismatched features/processes between the satellite imagery and the NWP. Anyone trying to add valu ...
PV Modification
You know what PV is, yet aren't quite sure how to modify it to make a better forecast. In this short lesson, we will discuss how to modify the PV surface to match water vapour imagery and how those adjustments affect the surface sensible weather. This is the fifth in a series of video lessons that introduces three different methods for modifying NWP output to add human value to forecasts. Pre-requisite Knowledge: Satellite Water Vapour Interpretation -- Short Course
NWP Comparisons: Total-column Variables
Another way to try to find mismatches between observed weather and NWP output is by using total-column variables. There are a few of them to choose from, and they make for a relatively simple comparison method for finding correctable mismatches. In this lesson, we'll address appropriate methods for making these comparisons and build to a point where we will focus on bigger picture atmospheric processes. This is the second in a series of video lessons that introduces three different methods for modifying NWP output to add human value to forecasts.
Leveraging Social Science to Improve Risk Communications
NWS forecasts are only one of many sources of forecast guidance that both expert users and the public have access to. Decision support for a spectrum of end users requires that the NWS will use social science findings and practices as a guide for making its products more accessible and effective.This lesson will focus on effective messaging when communicating weather hazards. In the process the learner will become familiar with some messaging best practices that are based on social science findings.
Interpreting and Communicating EPS Guidance: Germany Winter Event
This 45-minute lesson briefly introduces learners to the benefits of using probabilistic forecast information to assess weather and communicate forecast uncertainties. Learners will explore a winter weather event in Germany and practice synthesizing deterministic and probabilistic forecast guidance to better understand forecast uncertainties based on lead-time. Also, learners will decide how to best communicate the potential weather threats and impacts to local end users. The lesson is another component of the Forecast Uncertainty: EPS Products, Interpretation, and Communication distance learn ...
Satellite Foundational Course for JPSS: SatFC-J (SHyMet Full Course Access)
The Satellite Foundational Course for JPSS (SatFC-J) is a series of short lessons focused on topics related to microwave remote sensing and Joint Polar Satellite System instruments and capabilities. Hosted by the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA), this resource provides access to the full set of course lessons, which were developed specifically for National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters. The lessons provide foundational training to help forecasters and decision makers maximize the utility of the U.S.’ new-generation polar-orbiting environmental satellites. The cou ...
GOES-R Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) North America Examples
The Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) aboard the GOES-R series satellites provides continuous lightning detection from space, giving forecasters a unique tool to monitor developing thunderstorms. This 45 minute lesson introduces learners to the benefits of using GLM gridded products, primarily Flash Extent Density (FED). Learners will explore several North American convective events and use Flash Extent Density, in combination with other satellite and radar data, to diagnose convective initiation, storm intensification, and areal extent of lightning activity. Helpful hints to keep in mind w ...
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 ...
Frontal Diagnosis 1
In this lesson, we start by investigating the different types of fronts that are commonly analyzed. Next, we address two different types of cold fronts: classic (stacked), and katabatic. Then, we identify the main characteristics of these frontal types and what sets them apart from each other in conceptual models and in water vapour imagery. This is the first lesson in a two part series that addresses three different types of cold fronts and how to diagnose them.
Introduction to Modifying NWP Output
Surface observations are usually the first place we go when trying to find mismatches between observed weather and NWP output. We'll talk in this lesson about appropriate methods for making those comparisons and build to a point where we will focus on bigger picture atmospheric processes. This is the first in a series of video lessons that introduces three different methods for modifying NWP output to add human value to forecasts.
Instrumentation and Measurement of Atmospheric Humidity
This lesson provides an overview of the science and techniques related to measuring humidity, or the amount of water vapor, in Earth's atmosphere. After beginning with a review of the units used for humidity, the learner will examine the three main types of hygrometers (material, thermodynamic, and optical) and explore instruments within each of these categories. The lesson provides information about the advantages and limitations of various humidity instruments. The effects of siting, sheltering, and ventilation on humidity measurements are also addressed. The lesson is part of the Instrument ...
Using Multi-hazard, Impacts-based Forecast and Warning Services
Using a heavy rain situation in Barbados, this video will demonstrate the use of Multi-hazard, Impacts-based Forecast and Warning Services. The demonstration will show an evolution of the forecast in the 3-, 2-, and 1-day lead time periods. The rainfall case is based loosely on 2018's Tropical Storm Kirk, although the name and specific details of the storm are not used.
Scenario-Based Planning for Sea Level Change in the U.S. Using the USACE Sea Level Change Curve Calculator and Guidance
This lesson introduces tools and concepts that are essential for scenario-based planning for sea level change. The lesson guides the learner through the use of the USACE Sea Level Change Calculator to produce site-specific water-level projections. The lesson also introduces the NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer and NOAA's Sea Level Trends website.
Adjusting NWP: Direct Comparison
If there were a way to make direct comparisons between satellite imagery and NWP output, that would appear to be the best possible way to find mismatches between the observed weather and NWP output. In this lesson, we'll address possible methods for making direct comparisons, starting with pseudo or synthetic satellite imagery and building to a point where we focus on a relatively unused NWP output. This is the third in a series of video lessons that introduces three different methods for modifying NWP output to add human value to forecasts. Pre-requisite Knowledge: Satellite Water Vapour Inte ...
Snowpack and Its Assessment
This module explores the science of snowpack and snowpack assessment. It begins by describing the factors involved in snowpack development and then focuses on snowpack evolution. Using two scenarios (one set in mountainous terrain, the other in a relatively flat area), the module explores how basic processes, such as conduction and radiation, and various precipitation events impact snowpack, particularly its density, structure, and stability, throughout the cold season. Woven throughout the module are video clips of avalanche forecasters discussing snowpack and demonstrating various assessment ...
Basic Satellite Imagery Interpretation
This lesson teaches the basics of satellite image interpretation to forecasters, meteorology students, and other interested learners, with an emphasis on the African region. It begins by briefly describing visible, infrared, and water vapour channels, as well as RGBs and derived products. From there, it teaches learners how to interpret clouds and surface features using various channels and products. This sets the stage for the final section, where learners practice identifying features using assorted imagery and products. The lesson uses Meteosat Second Generation imagery over Africa and, to ...
Microwave Remote Sensing: Overview, 2nd Edition
This module presents an overview of space-based microwave remote sensing for environmental applications with a focus on meteorological applications. It delivers basic information on polar-orbiting satellite characteristics, current microwave instruments, and the products they provide. Special attention is given to the newer capabilities of the U.S.’s Suomi NPP (National Polar-orbiting Partnership) and future JPSS (Joint Polar Satellite System) satellites with additional information included for those missions being operated by international partners. This module also serves as an introduction ...
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.
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.
GCOS, 226. GCOS Surface Reference Network (GSRN) : Justification, requirements, siting and instrumentation options
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC); et al. - WMO, 2019This report is produced by the GSRN Task Team and provides a proposal for the establishment of a GCOS Surface Reference Network, with the support of the GCOS programme, relevant programmes at WMO and the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM). It outlines the next steps required for the implementation of a GSRN: approval of the proposed GSRN by relevant WMO programmes, the GCOS programme and other sponsors, solicitation of offers to host and staff appropriately the proposed Lead Centre, and the selection of suitable sites for an initial GSRN.
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