A Convective Storm Matrix: Buoyancy/Shear Dependencies
[2]
3-4
hours
Product
Description:
In
order to help forecasters build a strategy for anticipating convective storm
structures, their evolution, and the potential for severe weather, A Convective
Storm Matrix provides learners the opportunity for extensive exploration of the
relationship between a storm's environment and its structure. The matrix is
composed of 54 four-dimensional numerical simulations based on the interactions
of 16 different hodographs and 4 thermodynamic profiles. By comparing animated
displays of these simulations, learners are able to discern the influences of
varying buoyancy and vertical wind shear profiles on storm structure and
evolution. A series of questions guides the exploration and helps to reveal key
storm/environment relationships evident in the matrix. A synopsis of the
physical processes that control storm structure, as well as the current
conceptual models of key convective storms types, is included for reference. Subject
matter expects for A Convective Storm Matrix: Buoyancy/Shear Dependencies
include Mr. Steve Keighton, Mr. Ed Szoke, and Dr. Morris Weisman.
Note: This module was originally published on CD-ROM in
March 1996 (v1.1) and re-released in 2001 as v1.3 for Microsoft Windows users
only. CD-ROM version 1.3 works fairly well with Windows 98/ME/NT4/2000 but has
reported to be problematic with Windows XP. Users of version 1.1 should obtain
the patch located at http://www.comet.ucar.edu/help/ModuleSupport/matrix_problem.htm
or use the new, Web-based module.
A Social Science Perspective on Flood Events
[1]
30
minutes
Product
Description:
This presentation by Dr.
Eve Gruntfest raises important issues of how floods and other disasters,
including land-falling hurricanes and their related warnings, affect public
attitudes and actions. Awareness of these social science considerations is
important for persons responsible for public weather warnings as well as other
types of public interaction.
An Introduction to POES Data and Products
[1]
75
minutes
Product
Description:
A course outline is
available online at http://www.comet.ucar.edu/class/POES_2001/outline.htm.
An MCS Matrix
[2]
3-4
hours
Product
Description:
This
module includes an interactive MCS Matrix of numerical simulations illustrating
the physical processes controlling MCS evolution, as well as an archive of the
entire Web module, Mesoscale
Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes.
Patterned
after the CD Module A
Convective Storm Matrix, the new
MCS Matrix provides learners the opportunity for extensive exploration of the
relationship between a MCSs environment and its structure. The matrix is
composed of 21 four-dimensional numerical simulations based on the interactions
of 10 different hodographs with a common thermodynamic profile. By comparing
animated displays of these simulations learners are able to discern the
influences of vertical wind shear and the Coriolis Force on MCS structure and
evolution.
A
series of questions guides the exploration and helps to reveal key
storm/environment relationships evident in the matrix.
The
subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Morris Weisman. The subject matter experts for the Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall
Lines and Bow Echoes Web module
are Dr. Morris Weisman and Mr. Ron Przybylinski.
Note: This module was originally published 5/28/99 as a
CD-ROM (v1.0) as dual module along with a local copy of the Web module Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall
Lines and Bow Echoes (v3.0). The
CD-ROM version of An MCS
Matrix (1.0) works fairly well
with Windows 98/ME/NT4/2000 but has reported to be problematic with Windows XP.
Windowx XP Users of version 1.0 should use the new, Web-based module.
Anticipating Hazardous Weather and Community Risk
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
4-5
hours
Product
Description:
Hazardous weather affects
us all. To help local emergency managers cope with weather hazards they may
face, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) offer a
course titled Hazardous Weather and Flooding Preparedness. However, many people
who make weather-related decisions are unable to attend this 2-3 day course.
The purpose of this Web-based course, Anticipating Hazardous Weather and
Community Risk, is to provide background on weather and weather hazards for
emergency managers and other decision makers. This course is intended to
complement on-site courses offered by FEMA and NWS, so that they can focus on
local hazards and community risk factors. This course coversÉ Weather: How and
why it forms, Hazardous weather: Fact sheets on different phenomena,
Forecasting weather: The forecast process and products issued by the NWS,
Warning Partnership: How the NWS and emergency managers generate and
communicate warnings, and a Desktop Exercise: An opportunity to apply what you
have learned in a flash flood scenario. FEMA Independent Study credit is
available for those who complete the course and pass the exam. The subject
matter experts for Anticipating Hazardous Weather and Community Risk are
Randall C. Duncan, CEM - Sedgwick County (KS) Emergency Management, Bob Glancy
- NWS, Bob Goldhammer - Polk County (IA) Emergency Management, Curt Nellis -
County of Shenandoah (VA) Department of Fire and Rescue, John Ogren - NWS, and
Bruce Sterling - Portsmouth (VA) Emergency Management.
Applying Diagnostic and Forecast Tools: Forecasting Fog and Low
Stratus
[2]
3
hours
Product
Description:
This module discusses how
to apply various observational data and remote sensing tools such as satellite,
METARS, soundings, profilers, radar, and model analyses to diagnose the
potential for fog and/or low stratus. Various forecast tools (such as model
forecast fields, forecast soundings, and BUFKIT) used to assess fog and/or low
stratus potential onset, intensity, and duration are also examined. This module
is part of the Distance
Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.
Assessing Climatology in Fog/Stratus Forecasting
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
This module addresses the
local and regional climatological considerations and presents tools and
methodologies that can be used to assess whether atmospheric conditions can
foster fog or low stratus development. Knowing your local climatology and
assessing whether it supports favorable conditions for fog or low stratus
development is an important step in the forecast process. A number of physical
conditions that determine fog or stratus development are largely dictated by
climatological restraints, as well as the synoptic pattern. This module is part
of the Distance
Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.
Australian Warm-season Severe Thunderstorm Case Studies
[2]
4-6
hours
Product
Description:
In
this Southern Hemisphere-focused module, the student can work through one major
Australian severe thunderstorm event in detail and examine aspects of two other
severe thunderstorm events as well. Follow a forecast time-line to assess data
and make decisions from the pre-storm phase through the warning phase.
NOTE: The Bureau of Meteorology owns this modue, NOT the
COMET Program
Blowing Snow:
Baker Lake, Nunavut, Canada 04-10 February 2003
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This case exercise takes
an in-depth look at a blowing snow event in the northern mainland of Canada.
The case addresses specific low-level wind and snow conditions. Model data,
satellite imagery, and observations are provided for assessing the potential
for blowing snow and blizzard conditions as the event unfolds.
CAMEO/HYSPLIT
[1]
33
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast is an
introduction by Dr. Alan Czarnetski of the University of Northern Iowa to the
CAMEO and HYSPLIT Models. CAMEO is often used by emergency managers to estimate
local impacts (within 10 km) from a hazardous atmospheric release. It consists
of three main modules: a chemical database, a dispersion model, and a mapping
application. The HYSPLIT model is a long-range transport and dispersion model
that is commonly used to track releases from nuclear power plants and smoke
plumes from forest fires. The module assumes that the user has already viewed
the Webcast, "Dispersion Basics", available from the main menu under
Topics|Other.
[1]
20
minutes
Product
Description:
The goal of the EPV chart
is to aid operational forecasters in predicting CSI and slantwise convection.
The description includes links to the online chart, which is updated twice
daily by the CMC, as well as a list of synoptic considerations that will
support your use of the EPV chart in identifying regions favorable for CSI and
slantwise convection
Case Study: A New England Fog Event
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
This case examines an
event that took place over New England and the Mid-Atlantic on 14 June 2001. As
the culminating exercise for lessons 1 and 2 of the Distance Learning Aviation
Course 1 (DLAC1) on Fog and Stratus Forecasting, its objectives are to 1)
identify the preconditions favorable for fog or stratus development; 2)
identify synoptic and local processes that influence the event; 3) assess onset
time, duration, dissipation, and intensity; and 4) develop a TAF that reflects
expected changes in ceiling and visibility. The module is a re-creation of
several live teletraining sessions offered in 2003 as part of DLAC1.
Case Study: A Northern Plains Cold-Air Outbreak Event
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
This case study focuses on
making a forecast and writing a TAF so that it best represents the
meteorological situation to aviation customers. During the exercise, the
student prepares a forecast for Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As part of the
Distance Learning Aviation Course 1 (DLAC1) on Fog and Stratus Forecasting, the
exercise applies concepts taught in the rest of the course, with special
emphasis on determining the impacts on airfield flight operations and creating
a TAF that describes those impacts. The module is a re-creation of several live
teletraining sessions offered in 2003 as part of DLAC1
Challenges of
Forecasting in the West
[2]
35
minutes
Product
Description:
During this presentation,
Dr. Brad Colman (NOAA/NWS) covers both the philosophical and methodological
approaches to weather forecasting in general, with a special emphasis on
challenges introduced in areas of complex terrain. The insightful comments made
by the presenter regarding recommended approaches to applying conceptual
models, mesoscale model output, and decision trees in the forecast process are
useful to anyone who predicts the weather.
Coastally Trapped Wind Reversals
[2]
1.5
Ð 2 hours
Product
Description:
This module starts with a
forecast scenario that occurs along the California coast. The module then
proceeds to describe the structure and climatology of these disturbances, as
well as their synoptic and mesoscale evolution. The instruction concludes with
a section on forecasting coastally trapped wind reversals. The module also
includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your
knowledge. Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module
comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Cold Air Damming
[2]
1
Ð 1.5 hours
Product
Description:
Cold Air Damming is part
of the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer series. This module first presents a Navy
forecast scenario prior to the development of a major cold air damming (CAD)
event along the east slopes of the Appalachian Mountains. Then, from a
conceptual standpoint, the classic CAD scenario is described in detail, both
from an observational and modeling standpoint.
Community Hurricane Preparedness
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
4-5
hours
Product
Description:
The Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration's National Weather Service (NWS) annually hold courses, called
An Introduction to Hurricane Preparedness, at the National Hurricane Center in
Miami, Florida. The number of students who can attend every year is far less
than the number of people who are involved in making decisions during
hurricanes. The purpose of this computer-based course, Community Hurricane
Preparedness, is to provide emergency managers and decision makers who cannot
attend the course with basic information about How hurricanes form The hazards
they pose How the NWS forecasts future hurricane behavior What tools and guiding
principles can help emergency managers prepare their communities Community
Hurricane Preparedness is not intended to take the place of the Miami course or
other courses sponsored by FEMA and/or state agencies. However, it will provide
a good background for those who have not yet attended those courses. The
subject matter experts for Community Hurricane Preparedness are Max Mayfield Ð
NWS, William Massey Ð FEMA, Dr. Robert Smith Ð FEMA, John Wilson Ð Lee County
Division of Public Safety, and William Winn, Jr. Ð Beaufort County Emergency
Management Department.
Customer Impacts: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This module addresses
issues surrounding the direct and indirect impacts of restricted ceilings and
visibilities on aviation operations and also briefly examines their impacts on
ground and marine transportation. The goal is improve forecaster awareness of
how their forecasts of these events affect commercial and general aviation
operation. This module is part of the Distance
Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.
Definition of the Mesoscale
[1]
30
minutes
Product
Description:
By
the end of this module you will be able to answer...
*
What is the mesoscale and how do we classify it?
*
What is hydrostatic equilibrium?
*
Why are non-hydrostatic processes so important to mesoscale meteorology?
*
Why does forecasting mesoscale meteorology rely on model resolution?
* How might mesoscale
processes impact fleet operations?
Determining Visibility
[2]
10
minutes
Product
Description:
This 10-minute Webcast was
developed from a presentation at the Naval Research Laboratory in April 2003 by
LTJG Matt Henigin. LTJG Henigin reviews techniques for making visibility
forecasts by combining surface observations with remote sensing data to
estimate visibility in areas where no surface observations are available.
Examples in the Webcast are drawn from southwest Asia.
Diagnosing and
Forecasting Extratropical Transition: A Case Exercise on Hurricane Michael
[2]
30-45
minutes
Product
Description:
This exercise tracks
Hurricane Michael as it moved into the Maritime region of the Canadian east
coast in October, 2000. Analyze data and respond to questions focusing on
forecasting the progression of the storm. This case exercise accompanies the
Webcast, Hurricanes Canadian Style: Extratropical Transition.
Dispersion Basics
[3]
25
minutes
Product
Description:
A webcast presentation by
Dr. Timothy Spangler (Director of the COMET Program and a former air quality
consultant). This 25-minute lecture provides an overview of the basics of
dispersion, the effects of different atmospheric conditions on dispersion, and
how dispersion is commonly modeled after an accidental release of a hazardous
material.
Dust Enhancement
Techniques Using MODIS and SeaWiFS
[1]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
The Dust Enhancement Techniques Using
MODIS and SeaWiFS Webcast
features Dr. Steven Miller of the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Monterey,
California and takes about one hour to complete. Dr. Miller explains two
techniques for detecting blowing dust using multispectral satellite imagery
from the MODIS and SeaWiFS instruments. He also provides guidelines for the
best uses of these techniques. The Webcast includes several recent operational
examples from southwest Asia. This presentation was originally given at a
workshop hosted by NRL in April, 2003
Dynamics & Microphysics of Cool-Season Orographic Storms
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
In this Webcast, Dr. James
Steenburgh, working for the Department of Meteorology and the NOAA Cooperative
Institute for Regional Prediction at the University of Utah, takes a look at
cool-season orographic storms in western North America. He provides a brief
microphysics review, an overview of cool-season orographic precipitation
processes in several mountain ranges, and a look at forecasting tools and
techniques. This Webcast is based on a classroom presentation given in Boulder,
CO in December 2002.
Ensemble Forecasting Explained
[3]
4-5
hours
Product
Description:
This module, the latest in
our series on Numerical Weather Prediction, covers the theory and use of
ensemble prediction systems (EPSs). The module will help forecasters develop an
understanding of the basis for EPSs, the skills to interpret ensemble products,
and strategies for their use in the forecast process. It contains six sections:
an Introduction that briefly presents background theory; Generation, which
describes how ensemble systems are constructed; Statistical Concepts, which
provides a brief refresher on knowledge required for ensemble product
interpretation; Summarizing Data, which describes common ensemble forecast
products; Verification, which discusses how EPSs performance is assessed and
documented; and Case Applications, which provides links to a number of forecast
cases illustrating the use of EPSs in the forecast process. Questions and
Exercises are offered throughout to help you test your learning and provide
practical examples. The module also includes a pre-assessment and module final
quiz.
[2]
40
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, presented by
Dr. Marty Hoerling of NOAA/CIRES/Climate Diagnostic Center, discusses the
impacts of El Ni–o and La Ni–a variability on both North American and tropical
weather. The presentation shows that these two phenomena are not simple
inverses of each other and that anticipating their varying intensities is key
to making successful climate forecasts. Two other ocean impacts that affect
North American climate almost as strongly as ENSO are also introduced.
Feature Identification Exercises: Clouds, Snow, and Ice Using
MODIS
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This module consists of
four exercises where users identify surface features, distinguish clouds from
snow on the ground, and determine cloud phase using multispectral analysis. The
module also includes an overview of multispectral techniques available on many
operational and research polar-orbiting satellites. A page with links to
real-time polar-orbiting data and information is also included.
Feature Identification from Environmental Satellites
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This Webcast, presented by Tom Lee of the Naval Research
Laboratory, focuses on feature identification using a combination of
high-resolution multispectral polar and geostationary satellite imagery
products. The Webcast is made up
of five short sections focus on a set of particularly challenging feature
identification problems including: clouds over snow; contrails/thin cirrus;
fires, hot spots, and smoke; blowing dust; snow, icebergs, and pack ice.
Examples are included from Asia, Europe, and North America. A table summarizes
suggested detection strategies for each phenomena type, based on available
polar and geostationary capabilities and whether the event occurs during
daytime or nighttime.
Flow Interaction
with Topography
[1]
30
minutes
Product
Description:
By
the end of this module you will be able to answer...
*
What factors control whether air will go up and over a mountain or be forced
around it?
*
What roles do potential energy and kinetic energy play?
*
What is the Froude number and what does it tell you?
* What happens when the
air flow is blocked by topography?
Fog and Stratus
Forecast Approaches
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
This module deals with
identifying the characteristics of radiation versus advection fog events,
determining which process is dominating, and applying that understanding when
making ceiling and visibility forecasts. A forecast approach using a decision
tree is also discussed. This decision tree outlines the basic steps involved in
applying a thorough forecast approach to fog and stratus events. The module is
based on live teletraining sessions offered in 2003 as part of the Distance
Learning Aviation Course 1 (DLAC1) on Fog and Stratus Forecasting.
Forecasting Aviation Icing: Icing Type and Severity
[2]
3-5
hours
Product
Description:
This module discusses the
current theories of atmospheric conditions associated with aircraft icing and
applies the theories to the icing diagnosis and forecast process. The
contribution of liquid water content, temperature, and droplet size parameters
to icing are examined. Identification of icing type, icing severity, and the
hazards associated with icing features are presented. Tools to help diagnose
atmospheric processes that may be contributing to icing and the special case of
supercooled large drop (SLD) icing are examined and applied in short exercises.
The use of graphics, animations, and interactive exercises in Forecasting
Aviation Icing: Icing Type and Severity helps the forecaster to gain an understanding
of icing processes, to identify icing hazards, and to apply diagnosis and
forecast tools as aids to evaluate and anticipate potential aircraft icing
threats. The subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Marcia Politovich of
NCAR/Research Applications Program.
Forecasting Dust Storms
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
Forecasting
Dust Storms is the latest
module in the Mesoscale
Meteorology Primer. The module
starts by discussing the conditions required for a dust storm, including an
appropriate source of dust, sufficient wind and turbulence, and an unstable
atmosphere. The module then explores the fate of dust in the atmosphere
including dispersion, advection, and settling. The concluding section on
forecasting examines a case in the Middle East and demonstrates the use of a
mesoscale NWP model, as well as next-generation dust forecasting models.
[2]
2
hours
Product
Description:
This is the second module
in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer series. This module starts with a forecast
scenario that occurs during a winter radiation fog event in the Central Valley
of California. After that, a conceptual section covers the physical processes
of radiation fog through its life cycle. Operational sections addressing fog
detection and forecasting conclude the module
Freezing and Melting, Precipitation Type, and Numerical Weather
Prediction
[2]
35
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast is based on a
COMET classroom presentation by Dr. Gary Lackmann at the 2nd MSC Winter Weather
Course held in Boulder, Colorado on 22 February 2002. Dr. Lackmann reviews the
basic thermodynamics of freezing and melting and how operational models
represent these processes. He also touches upon the biases that occur in the
models by looking at examples of melting snow aloft, melting snow at the
surface, freezing aloft (ice pellets), and freezing rain. Dr. Lackmann is a
faculty member in the Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences at
North Carolina State University.
From mm to cm... Study of snow/liquid water ratios in Quebec
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
10+
hours
Product
Description:
In a detailed 130 page
report, Ivan DubŽ of the Meteorological Service of Canada reviews the factors
that contribute to snow density, and presents a new and improved algorithm
based on data from QuŽbec for diagnosing and predicting snow density. A
verification of the algorithm is included, along with a few case examples. This
document is in English as a .pdf file. A French version is also available.
[1]
1.5-2
hours
Product
Description:
This module provides a basic
understanding of why gap winds occur, their typical structures, and how gap
wind strength and extent are controlled by larger scale, or synoptic,
conditions. You will learn about a number of important gap flows in coastal
regions around the world, with special attention given to comprehensively
documented gap wind cases in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Columbia River
Gorge. Basic techniques for evaluating and predicting gap flows are presented.
The module reviews the capabilities and limitations of the current generation
of mesoscale models in producing realistic gap winds. By the end of this
module, you should have sufficient background to diagnose and forecast gap
flows around the world, and to use this knowledge to understand their
implications for operational decisions. Other feature in this module includes a
concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge.
Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module comes with
audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Heavy Banded Snow
[2]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
In this webcast, Dr. James
Moore (Saint Louis University) addresses the location of heavy banded snow in
relationship to cold, warm and dry conveyor belts, the TROWAL, and equivalent
potential vorticity. This webcast is based on a presentation by Dr. Moore
MSC/COMET Winter Weather Workshop in Boulder, CO, 4 December 2002.
How Mesoscale Models Work
[1]
30 minutes
Product
Description:
The goal of this training
module is to help you increase your understanding of how mesoscale models work.
Such understanding, in turn, can help you more efficiently and accurately
evaluate model-generated forecast products.
How Models
Produce Precipitation & Clouds
[2]
3-6
hours
Product
Description:
Part of the Numerical
Weather Prediction Professional Development Series, this moduel explores how
NWP models handle precipitation and cloud processes through parameterizations
and/or explicit methods, with an emphasis on how a model's treatment of these
processes affects its ability to depict and forecast precipitation and other
related forecast variables. The module provides background information for the Characteristics
of Operational NWP Models module (also in the NWP PDS), which contains current
information about the characteristics and architecture of commonly used
operational models, their operationally significant strengths and weaknesses,
and model assessment tools. The subject matter expert for this module is Dr.
Ralph Petersen of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction,
Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC).
Hurricane Strike!ª
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
2-3
hours
Product
Description:
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. 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 important and possibly
life-saving safety and preparedness skills. The module includes several
interactive games and activities that address hurricane meteorology and
hurricane safety. Teachers and others who use the module for public education
will find the "Information for Teachers" section particularly useful.
This section provides information about all of the main learning objects in the
module, as well as access to them as stand-alone activities. Links to numerous
hurricane-related Web sites are also included, as are links to expert advice
about helping children deal with trauma. Worksheets that test the learner's
understanding of the module's content are provided in this section, as well as
throughout the module.
Hurricanes
Canadian Style: Extratropical Transition
[2]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast is based on a
presentation delivered by Jim Abraham of MSC at the Winter Weather Course in
February 2001. The presentation discusses how, under the right synoptic
conditions, hurricanes and tropical storms undergo a transition process to
extratropical cyclones as they move into northern latitudes. During the
transition process these "hybrid" systems can bring damaging weather
conditions to Eastern Canada and the Northeastern States. It uses several case
examples to demonstrate the process.
Hydrology for the Meteorologist: The Headwater Forecast Process
[2]
1-3
hours
Product
Description:
The second in a series of
two hydrology training packages, Hydrology for the Meteorologist: The Headwater
Forecast Process, builds upon the topics covered in the first CD-ROM, Hydrology
for the Meteorologist: Basic Hydrology for Headwater Forecasting. The subject
matter experts are Mr. Gerald Nibler from the NWS River Forecast Center in
Anchorage, AK and Mr. C. Michael Callahan from the NWS Forecast Office in
Louisville, KY. This on-line course covers the basic procedures involved in
evaluating a potential headwater flooding situation to determine if the public
needs to be alerted. The different types of products needed to make these
decisions are introduced and interactions are provided to allow you to practice
using them. As you move through the headwater forecast process, you must employ
the concepts learned in Hydrology for the Meteorologist: Basic Hydrology for
Headwater Forecasting in order to make decisions about issuing a flood product.
Being aware of how a runoff event will affect the basin of interest will allow
you to focus on the regions most likely to experience flooding. The purpose of
this training is to give you a starting point and basic procedure to follow
when approaching a possible flood situation. This is similar to the way the
Forecast Process module provided an outline to follow in developing a weather
forecast. Since flooding is not a forecast problem addressed by forecasters
everyday, this training can be viewed as a continuing resource of hydrologic
information. Forecasters can review the material as needed to stay current on
the basic procedures and concepts that go into producing a flood product.
Icing Assessment Using Observations and Pilot Reports
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This Web-based learning
module is the second title in a series of modules about the use of diagnostic
tools to evaluate icing type and severity. Marcia Politovich of the NCAR
Research Applications Program (RAP) is the principle subject matter expert. The
module teaches how to assess surface observations, upper-air charts, and pilot reports
(PIREPs) in order to diagnose the aviation icing environment. Topics include
strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate uses of these data, data assessment
methods, interpretation and evaluation of PIREPs, and a bottom-up procedure for
integrated icing diagnosis at a particular location. This module includes
numerous practice exercises allowing learners to improve their skills in icing
assessment using these basic observational tools.
Icing Assessment Using Soundings and Wind Profiles
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT WITHOUT CD-ROM
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
Marcia Politovich of the
NCAR Research Applications Program (RAP) is the principle subject matter expert
for this Web-based learning module. The module teaches how to assess vertical
profiles of wind, temperature, dewpoint, and frost point in order to diagnose
airmass characteristics, cloud layers, and possible aviation icing layers.
Topics include strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate uses of rawinsonde and
profiler data for assessment of aviation icing, icing characteristics of the
different extratropical cyclone air masses, identification of dry and saturated
layers and possible zones of favorable conditions for aircraft icing, and ice
seeding and glaciation processes. If you wish, you may launch the module from
this location. Note: This module requires use of the companion CD-ROM called
The Icing Event of 6 March 1996.
Imaging with NPOESS VIIRS: A Convergence of Technologies and
Experience
[1]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
This module introduces the
NPOESS VIIRS imager that will fly on the NPOESS Preparatory Project and the
NPOESS satellites. The VIIRS imager has many advanced features that will
improve both spectral and temporal resolution. Ninety-five percent of VIIRS
data will be available within 28 minutes of overpass time, providing
consistent, high-quality, high-resolution data to users. This module covers the
improvements to VIIRS by examining the systems that contributed to its
development. Special attention is paid to the Day/Night Visible channel as
VIIRS will be the first civilian satellite to image atmospheric and terrestrial
features with and without moonlight.
Impact of Model Structure & Dynamics
[2]
3-5
hours
Product
Description:
Impact of Model Structure
& Dynamics, part of the Numerical Weather Prediction Professional
Development Series, provides operationally significant information about model
type, horizontal resolution, vertical coordinate systems, vertical resolution,
and domain and boundary conditions, with an emphasis on how each aspect can
affect a model's ability to depict and forecast weather. The module provides
background information for the Characteristics of Operational NWP Models module
(also in the NWP PDS), which contains current information about the
characteristics and architecture of commonly used operational models, their
operationally significant strengths and weaknesses, and model assessment tools.
The subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Ralph Petersen of the National
Centers for Environmental Prediction, Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC).
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This collection of four
condensed physics lessons is offered as a companion to our Physics of the
Aurora: Earth Systems learning module, and has been developed especially for
use by university physics educators. The lesson topics are Charged Particle
Motions, Magnetic Force, the Frozen-field Theorem, and Static Atmospheres. Each
short, self-contained lesson can be accessed independently and includes
interactive formula derivations, exercises, and open-ended questions suitable
for classroom discussion or out-of-class assignments.
Influence of Model Physics on NWP Forecasts
[2]
1.5
hours
Product
Description:
This module describes
model parameterizations of sub-surface, boundary-layer,and free atmospheric
processes, such as surface snow processes, soil characteristics, vegetation,
evapotranspiration, PBL processes and parameterizations, and trace gases, and
their interaction with the radiative transfer process. It specifically
addresses how models treat these physical processes and how they can influence
forecasts of sensible weather elements.
Intelligent Use of Model-Derived Products
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This module was developed
and released in three sections: Postprocessing/Products, Statistical Guidance,
and Assessment Tools. Specific topics covered include the impact of
postprocessing and how to account for it, the statistical methods used to
enhance raw model output including how statistical guidance products like MOS
are generated, as well as NWP verification methodologies and use of daily model
diagnostics. The subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Ralph Petersen of
the National Centers for Environmental Prediction, Environmental Modeling
Center (NCEP/EMC), and J. Paul Dallavalle of the National Weather Service
(NWS), Meteorological Development Laboratory, Statistical Modeling Branch
(MDL/SMB). The primary content author was Kirby Cook, NWS, Western Region
Headquarters (WRH)/Scientific Services Division (SSD)
Introduction to Fire Behavior: Influences of Topography, Fuels,
and Weather on Fire Ignition and Spread
[1]
1
hour (est)
Product
Description:
This website provides an
overview of factors that affect the ignition and spread of wildfire.
Information is presented with 3-dimensional graphics and animations as well as
audio descriptions and commentary provided by a fire behavior expert. You don't
need extensive background in fire science or weather forecasting to use this
site.
Inverted Troughs and Their Associated Precipitation Regimes
[2]
60
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast features Phil
Schumacher, NWS Sioux Falls, South Dakota discussing the conditions that
dictate the location of precipitation relative to inverted troughs. Phil
presents a composite case study based on collaborative research with Dr. R.
Weisman and others, as well as two examples of inverted trough events in the
Central Plains. This presentation is based on his presentation at the MSC
Winter Weather Course, December 2002, in Boulder, Colorado. The webcast is
accompanied by a case exercise, Inverted Trough Case Exercise.
Inverted Troughs Case Exercise
[2]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
This exercise follows the
progression of a winter weather event across the Central Plains states
beginning 1200 UTC on 7 March 1999. Each forecast question is accompanied by
Eta model data and includes a forecast discussion by Phil Schumacher, NWS Sioux
Falls, South Dakota. This exercise compliments the Webcast, Inverted Troughs
and their Associated Precipitation Regimes, based on a presentation by Phil
Schumacher at the MSC Winter Weather Course, December 2002, in Boulder
Colorado.
Isentropic Analysis
[3\
59 minutes
Product
Description:
Dr. James T. Moore (St.
Louis University) offers an introduction to isentropic analysis as a tool to
diagnose and visualize vertical motion, depict 3-D advection of moisture,
compute moisture stability flux, diagnose isentropic potential vorticity,
diagnose dry static stability, diagnose conditional symmetric stability, and
help depict 2-D frontogenetical and transverse jet streak circulations.
Local Influences on Fog and Low Stratus
[2]
2-3
hours
Product
Description:
Local and mesoscale
influences can make or break your fog or stratus forecast. Influences of local
water bodies, terrain, vegetation, soil characteristics, and coastal features
on the lower atmosphere can play a vital role in the development, duration, and
intensity of these events. As part of the Distance
Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus, this module examines several of these influences
and discusses how they enhance or inhibit a fog or stratus event.
Low-Level Coastal Jets
[1]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
Low-level coastal jets
occur along many coastlines. Winds may exceed 35 knots and lead to high waves
and significant low-level vertical wind shear. Thus, low-level coastal jets
present a hazard to both marine and aviation operations in the coastal zone.
This core module describes the features of coastal jets 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 concise summary and a final exam. By the end of this module, you should
have sufficient background to diagnose and forecast coastal jets around the
world and to use this knowledge to understand the implications for operational
decisions.
Mesoscale Aspects of Winter Weather Forecasting Topics
No
time given.
Product
Description:
The Mesoscale Aspects of
Winter Weather Forecasting effort is comprised of a growing series of in-depth
case exercises bundled with supporting topics. This site provides access to the
supporting topics separate from the case exercises.
Accessible from Mesoscale
Aspects of Winter Weather Forecasting:
Lake Effect
Snow
[1]
1.5 hours (est)
Winter
Microphysics
[1]
1.5 hours (est)
Polar Low
Forecasting
[2]
2.5 hours (est)
Mesoscale
Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes
[2]
4-6
hours
Product
Description:
This module presents
current conceptual models of several MCS types and provides explanations for
the structures and behavior of MCSs based on the physical processes underlying
their evolution. An understanding of the physical processes and conceptual models
of MCSs will help forecasters to predict the most likely locations of severe
weather within existing systems and to forecast the longevity, areal extent,
and path of the system. Accompanied by conceptual animations, numerical
simulations, and case studies, Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall Lines and
Bow Echoes presents strategies with which the forecaster can identify the
potential for long-lived MCSs and attendant severe weather.
Mesoscale Meteorology: A Primer (A Module Collection)
No
time given. This is actually a
link to a list of other modules already on the list
Product
Description:
The Primer of Mesoscale
Meteorology is a web-based training program designed to improve forecasting of
mesoscale weather. The primer is collection of web-based modules that use
advanced multimedia features now available over the web, including streaming
audio, conceptual animations, and frequent interactions. The courses, or
modules, that comprise the primer fall into two types: short conceptual
foundation modules and longer, more elaborate modules that address specific
mesoscale weather phenomena. The conceptual foundation modules are linked to as
appropriate to provide a level of elaboration that might otherwise disrupt the
flow of the larger module.
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
Model Fundamentals, part
of the Numerical Weather Prediction Professional Development Series, describes
the components of an NWP model and how they fit into the forecast development
process. It also explores why parameterization of many physical processes is
necessary in NWP models. The module provides background information for the
Characteristics of Operational NWP Models module (also in the NWP PDS), which
contains current information about the characteristics and architecture of
commonly used operational models, their operationally significant strengths and
weaknesses, and model assessment tools. The subject matter expert for this
module is Dr. Ralph Petersen of the National Centers for Environmental
Prediction, Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC).
Mountain Waves and Downslope Winds
[1]
2-3
hours
Product
Description:
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 wave 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.
NPOESS: The Next Generation Polar-orbiting Operational
Environmental Satellite Program
[1]
60
Ð90 minutes
Product
Description:
In this Webcast, John
Cunningham (System Program Director from the Integrated Program Office)
presents an overview of the NPOESS satellite program including instrument
descriptions, deployment schedules, and background information.
Ocean Effect Snow: New England Snow Storm, 14 January 1999
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This case study is the
first in the Mesoscale Aspects of Winter Weather Forecasting module series. The
case is presented as a series of challenging forecast questions followed by a
more traditional case study presentation. Included in the exercise is a rich
set of data products and a series of background materials on lake/ocean effect
snow and winter microphysics processes.
Operational Models Matrix: Characteristics of Operational NWP
Models
[2]
3-5
hours
Product
Description:
Operational Models Matrix:
Characteristics of Operational NWP Models, part of the Numerical Weather
Prediction Professional Development Series, contains information about the
characteristics and architecture of commonly used operational models, their
operationally significant strengths and weaknesses, and model assessment tools.
The information is updated whenever significant model changes are made. The module
is linked to the Impact of Model Numerics on Weather Depiction module (also in
the NWP PDS), which provides background information about model components. The
subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Ralph Petersen of the National
Centers for Environmental Prediction, Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC).
Operational Satellite Derived Tropical Rainfall Potential (TRaP)
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
The COMET Program and the
Integrated Program Office are pleased to announce the publication of The
Operational Tropical Rainfall Potential (TRaP) module. This module, developed
by Sheldon Kusselson (Satellite Analysis Branch, NESDIS), traces the
development of the present TRaP product and shows numerous examples from recent
hurricane seasons comparing model precipitation forecast amounts, TRaP
estimated rainfall amounts, and observed rainfall. Guidelines for using the
TRaP product and future improvements are presented at the conclusion of the
module.
Physics of the Aurora: Earth Systems
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
2-6
hours
Product
Description:
This interactive learning
module introduces the systems and processes through which the EarthÕs magnetic
field and upper atmosphere capture the solar wind to light up the polar sky.
Developed especially for university professors and students in the fields of
physics and astronomy, this module includes sections on the history, lore, and
science of the aurora, the magnetosphere, the thermosphere-ionosphere, basic
electromagnetism, and upper-atmospheric physics.
Polar Lows Ungava Bay 01 December 2000
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
Polar lows are generally
short-lived but intense events that occur over cold ocean waters, poleward of a
baroclinic zone. The polar low in this case formed over the open waters of
Ungava Bay, in northeastern Canada, on 2 December 2000. The case is presented
as a series of challenging forecast questions followed by a more traditional
case study presentation. Included in this exercise is a rich set of data
products and access to background materials on polar low forecasting.
Polar Satellite Products for the Operational Forecaster, Module
1: POES Introduction and Background
[2]
1
hour (est)
Product
Description:
This Web-based module is a
component of the Integrated Sensor Training (IST) Professional Development
Series (PDS) Professional Competency Unit #6-Satellite Data and Products. Dr.
Stan Kidder of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA)
at Colorado State University is the principal science advisor for this module
with significant assistance from Dr. Gary Hufford (NWS Alaska Region). The
module provides an overview of current polar satellite products and their
applications in forecasting situations and also contains a summary of
instruments currently in use and a short history of the U.S. polar satellite
program. The module is the first in a series focusing on polar satellite
products and applications.
Polar Satellite Products for the Operational Forecaster, Module
2: Microwave Products and Applications
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This Web-based module is a
component of the Integrated Sensor Training (IST) Professional Development
Series (PDS) Professional Competency Unit #6-Satellite Data and Products. This
module provides a closer look at the capabilities, products, and applications
available to operational weather forecasting with the present suite of
microwave instruments onboard both NOAA and DMSP satellites. If you wish, you
may launch the module from this page.
Polar Satellite Products for the Operational Forecaster, Module
3: Case Studies
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
POES 3: Case Studies contains two short case study examples
that demonstrate different uses of polar satellite data. The first case example
shows how AMSU microwave data can be used to supplement other datasets to
improve precipitation forecasts. The second case example demonstrates the TRaP
method for calculating rainfall from Hurricane Georges.
Polar Satellite Products for the Operational Forecaster, Module
4: Soundings
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This module describes the
different sounding products available from NOAA polar-orbiting satellites. The
module provides guidance on integrating POES sounding data more effectively
with observations from other platforms to improve operational forecasting
activities. The ability to derive soundings in cloudy conditions increases the
value of this data to operational forecasters. Forecasters with
responsibilities outside the CONUS will also be able to use the global coverage
that POES sounders offer.
Polar Satellite Products for the Operational Forecaster:
Microwave Analysis of Tropical Cyclones
[2]
60 minutes
Product
Description:
This module introduces
forecasters to the use of microwave image products for observing and analyzing
tropical cyclones. Microwave data from polar-orbiting satellites is crucial to
todayÕs operational forecasters, and particularly for those with maritime
forecasting responsibilities where in situ observations are sparse. This module
includes information on storm structure and techniques for improved storm
positioning using the 37 and 85-91 GHz channels from several satellite sensors.
Information on current sensors and on the product availability in the NPOESS
era is also presented.
Predicting Supercell Motion Using Hodograph Techniques
[2]
30
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast features NWS
forecaster Matthew J. Bunkers presenting the results of a study originally
presented at the 19th AMS Conference on Severe Local Storms and published in
the February 2000 issue of the AMS journal Weather and Forecasting. It is
delivered as a streaming audio lesson with accompanying text and graphics. This
lesson is a new component of the Forecasting Severe Convection Professional Development
Series (http://meted.ucar.edu/convectn/index.htm). In this presentation Mr.
Bunkers presents a statistically superior method for predicting supercell
motion regardless of the shape or location of the shear profile on the
hodograph plot. The method is a modification of the method presented by Dr.
Morris Weisman in the COMET Program CD module, "Anticipating Convective
Storm Structure and Evolution", and was developed based on 225 actual
supercell events.
Principles of
Convection I: Buoyancy and CAPE
[1]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This module provides a
brief overview of Buoyancy and CAPE. Topics covered include the origin of
atmospheric buoyancy, estimating buoyancy using the CAPE and Lifted Index,
factors that affect buoyancy including entrainment of mid-level air, water
loading, and convective inhibition, and the origin of convective downdrafts.
Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module delivers
instruction with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographs
[1]
1
hour
Product
Description:
The latest foundation
module in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer series, this module 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
module, Anticipating
Convective Storm Structure and Evolution, developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographsincludes a concise summary for quick reference and
a final exam to test your knowledge. Like previous modules in the Mesoscale
Meteorology Primer, this module comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and
a companion print version.
Principles of
Convection III: Shear and Convective Storms
[1]
60
minutes
Product
Description:
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. Like previous modules in the
Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module comes with audio narration, rich
graphics, and a companion print version.
Quantitative Precipitation Forecasting Overview
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
Part
of the QPF PDS series, this site provides Webcasts and PowerPoint materials
related to quantitative precipitation forecasting. These materials include an
introductory QPF Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation with embedded audio, well
suited for an on-station lecture and discussion session, and three Webcasts by
Wes Junker, Senior Branch Forecaster at NCEP/HPC. Wes gives a self-paced
introduction to QPF lecture, as well as two separate presentations targeted at
QPF issues east of the Rockies and in the Western U.S.
Radiation Fog
[2]
1-2
hours
Product
Description:
This module presents the
physical processes and life cycle of radiation fog, including its
preconditioning environment, initiation, growth, and dissipation. The processes
include radiation (both solar and longwave), soil-atmosphere thermal
interactions, turbulent mixing, the roles of condensation nuclei, and droplet
settling. Each section includes a set of interactive questions based on the
learning content presented. Tom Dulong of the National Weather Service Center
Weather Service Unit (CWSU) in Longmont, Colorado is the Principal Science
Advisor for this module, and Dr. Paul Croft, Meteorology Program Coordinator
for Jackson State University, provided additional scientific review and guidance.
Rain Gauges: Are They Really Ground Truth?
[2]
40
minutes
Product
Description:
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.
Remote Sensing of Land, Oceans, and Atmosphere with MODIS
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This Webcast is based on
presentations given by Dr. W. Paul Menzel at several conferences. It is
approximately 60 minutes in length and introduces the MODIS instrument on the
Terra satellite. Dr. Menzel begins by providing background on MODIS channel
selection and instrument calibration. He continues with a variety of examples
that include both climatological and meteorological applications, including
high-resolution data and derived-product imagery. The examples are divided into
land, ocean, and atmosphere applications. Dr. Menzel concludes with a
discussion of the new direct-broadcast capability of the Terra satellite that
allows users all over the world to receive MODIS data.
Remote Sensing of Ocean Wind Speed and Direction: An
Introduction to Scatterometry
[3]
40
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast features Dr.
Michael Freilich (Oregon State University, principal investigator on the
QuikSCAT project for NSF) introducing and discussing the fundamentals of
scatterometry and how they apply to the SeaWinds instrument on QuikSCAT. Dr.
Freilich also describes how the model function is used to derive wind speed and
direction from multiple collocated measurements.
Rip Currents: Nearshore Fundamentals
[1]
23
minutes
Product
Description:
The Rip Currents: Nearshore
Fundamentals module provides
insight into how nearshore circulation and wave dynamics are involved in rip
current formation. Topics covered in this module include: nearshore
terminology, circulation and waves, rip current characteristics, and rip
current forcing mechanisms. This module is the second of three modules covering
the forecasting of rip currents.
Rip Currents: NWS Mission and Partnerships
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
20
minutes
Product
Description:
This 20-minute webcast by
Timothy Schott of the National Weather Service's Marine and Coastal Weather
Services Branch discusses the basics of rip current formation and detection and
the partnerships between the National Weather Service, National Sea Grant
College Program, and the United States Lifesaving Association as they relate to
rip current safety. Rip Currents is one of three modules on forecasting rip
currents.
Satellite Meteorology: GOES Channel Selection
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This Web module was
adapted from the CD-ROM module Satellite Meteorology: Using the New GOES
Imager, and uses Macromedia¨ Flash to deliver audio over the Web. The 60-minute
presentation provides a review of the five GOES imager channels and their use,
along with operational examples. The module also includes updated information
on the 6.7 micrometer (water vapor) channel and the new 13.3 micrometer channel
that will appear on the GOES N-P satellites.
Seasonal Forecast Problems Refresher Training
[1]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This prototype module was
originally intended as a review of seasonal weather regimes and hazards for
regions that are of particular interest to the Air Force Weather Agency.
Although the project was discontinued, the section on summer weather in the
southeast U.S. is available as an forecaster's training aid and as an example
of this type of training.
Severe Convection II: Mesoscale Convective Systems
[2]
2-4
hours
Product
Description:
Mesoscale convective
systems occur worldwide and year-round and are accompanied by the potential for
severe weather and flooding. This module in the Mesoscale Primer series
describes typical system evolution by examining squall line, bow echo, and MCC
characteristics throughout their life cycles. This module has less emphasis on
the physical processes controlling MCS structure and evolution than our
previously released module, Mesoscale
Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes. Instead, this newly
updated module includes more material on tropical squall lines, MCC's, and on
NWPÕs ability to predict convective systems. Like other core 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 learning experience.
Should Synopticians Worry About Climate?
[3]
50
minutes
Product
Description:
This lecture was presented
during the ongoing workshops on Climate Variability that are part of the NWS
Climate Professional Development Series. During the presentation, Dr.
Sardeshmukh presents statistical evidence that demonstrates the impact that
climate variability has on weather. The Webcast has an accompanying
bibliography and climate glossary.
Slantwise Convection Case Exercise
[2]
45
minutes
Product
Description:
This exercise examines an
event that took place in the 24 hour time period beginning at 18Z, Dec 31, 2000
in southern British Columbia, Canada and northern Washington/Idaho, United
States. This is a companion piece to the COMET Webcast, Slantwise Convection:
An Operational Approach
Slantwise
Convection: An Operational Approach
[2]
1
hr
Product
Description:
This Webcast is a
recreation of a presentation on slantwise convection given by Kent Johnson in
February, 2002 in Boulder, Colorado. It focuses on assessing the release of
conditional symmetric instability as slantwise convection. It provides an
overview of the characteristics and theory of CSI, assessment of CSI and
slantwise induced precipitation in complex terrain, and operational challenges
to assessing CSI.
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
15
minutes
Product
Description:
This video presentation
welcomes the Space Environment Center (SEC) to the National Weather Service
(NWS) as an operational entity of the National Centers for Environmental
Prediction (NCEP) family. Describing the ways in which space weather affects
global communications and power resources, it demonstrates the importance of
space weather forecasting as a part of the NWS family of services. With the
inclusion of SEC, the NWS now provides environmental understanding from the sun
to the sea
Synoptic Weather Considerations: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus
[2]
2-3
hours
Product
Description:
In order to assess whether
a fog or stratus event is possible, you must evaluate the synoptic-scale
influences that will drive the local conditions. In this module, we examine
several common synoptic situations to understand the processes involved in fog
or low stratus development. Most of these are forced primarily by advective or
dynamic processes (although radiation does play a role). A more detailed
discussion of radiation processes is contained in the Radiation Fog module. This module is part of the Distance Learning Course 1:
Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.
[2]
100
minutes
Product
Description:
This module introduces
forecasters to ten of the most commonly encountered or significant
misconceptions about NWP models. This list of ten misconceptions includes
issues surrounding data assimilation, model resolution, physical
parameterizations, and post-processing of model forecast output.
The Balancing
Act of Geostrophic Adjustment
[2]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This 7-page module
provides a primer on geostrophic adjustment concepts. It discusses their
application for understanding and forecasting real weather features,
interpreting model forecasts, and recognizing the type and duration of impact
that observations exert on the model forecast. The module also includes an
interactive Exercises section.
The El
Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) Cycle
[2]
30
Ð35 minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, is an expert
lecture by Dr. Vernon Kousky of NOAA/CPC, entitled "The El Ni–o-Southern
Oscillation (ENSO) Cycle". The presentation covers the identification and
global weather impacts associated with both phases of ENSO. This version of the
presentation has enhanced graphics and has been modified to include an
introduction to the newly established ÒOperational Ni–o IndexÓ (ONI). A
forecaster who attended the original classroom presentation on The ENSO Cycle
had the following to say... Ò[This lecture was the] best presentation of the
workshop! Very comprehensive, from the basics to the more complex issues, easy
to follow, and great use of graphics. The presenter did an excellent job of
relating the presentation topics to forecasters.Ó
The MJO Life Cycle
[2]
42
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, is an expert
lecture by Dr. Roland Madden, where he describes the important
climate-moderating feature, the Madden-Julian oscillation which is known more
commonly as the MJO. The Webcast is presented in five sections and covers the identification
and variability of the MJO. He also introduces some of the many global weather
impacts that are associated with MJO occurrences. A forecaster who attended the
original classroom presentation had the following to sayÉÒThis [lecture] was
really the best yet! And hearing it from the "father" of the MJO made
it so much better. It was so easy for me to empirically relate my years of
observing the weather to this cycle. I am convinced this is where we can make
the money in the improvement of 2 to 4 week forecasts in the next several
years.Ó
The NPOESS Science Advisory Team
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
15 minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, narrated by
Dr. Friday, describes the creation and roles of the NPOESS (National Polar-orbiting
Operational Environmental Satellite System) Science Advisory Team (SAT). This
team is composed of leading atmospheric scientists and headed by Dr. W. Elbert
"Joe" Friday, former director of the NWS. The SAT provides scientific
review and guidance to the individual Operational Algorithm Teams (OATs), which
are organized by discipline and/or sensor type. The VIIRS (Visible and Infrared
Imager Radiometer Suite) OAT (VOAT) for example, advises on instrument
development and tuning of algorithms to maximize efficiency and to assure that
the measurement objectives of specific environmental data records (EDRs) are
met.
The NPP Data Exchange Toolkit (NEXT)
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
10
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast features Dr.
Robert Murphy of NASA discussing the data quality flags and distribution
network for the initial data coming from the NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP)
satellite instruments. Dr. Murphy also provides contact points for more
information or to receive the initial NPP data stream
The Role of the MJO on Oceanic and Atmospheric Variability
[2]
37
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, presented by
Dr. Klaus Weickmann of NOAA/CIRES/Climate Diagnostic Center, explores the role
that the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) plays in global climate variability.
The expert lecture is divided into five sections, which give a short overview
of the phenomenon, discuss its relationship with sea surface temperatures,
compares composite MJO events to individual occurrences, and touches on the
ability of models to predict MJO events.
The Science of Global Climate Change and Human Influences
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
42 minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast is an expert
lecture by Dr. Kevin Trenberth of NCARÕs Climate and Global Dynamics division.
The presentation includes evidence that the atmosphere is changing, discussions
on global energy flows and human factors contributing to change, and concludes
with predictions for the future. This version of the presentation has enhanced
graphics and links to additional resources. One of the students who attended
the original classroom presentation on Climate Change commented that, ÒKevin
thoroughly discussed global warming and what it really is. I now have a better
understanding of the problem.Ó
Thermally-forced Circulation I: Sea Breezes
[1]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This module describes the
phenomena of the sea breeze. It examines factors that lead to the formation of
a sea breeze, modifying effects on sea breeze development, how mesoscale NWP
models handle sea breezes, and sea breeze forecast parameters. The module
places instruction in the context of a sea breeze case from Florida and
compares surface and satellite observations to a model simulation using the
AFWA MM5. Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module
comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Thermally-forced Circulation II: Mountain/Valley Breezes
[1]
30
minutes
Product
Description:
A foundation module in the
Mesoscale Meteorology Primer series. Topics covered include up- and downslope
breezes, up- and down-valley winds, associated hazards, and forecasting
techniques. Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module
comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
Top Ten Misconceptions about NWP Models: Teletraining Archive
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT (use the ÒTen...Ó module)
75
minutes
Product
Description:
The
material in this session is designed to introduce you to ten of the most
commonly encountered or significant misconceptions about NWP models, and to
dispel these misconceptions with the truth about what these models actually do
and how they may be used intelligently. This "top ten" list should
not be considered exhaustive, by any means, but rather a sample of
misconceptions from each of the main components of NWP models, including:
o
Data assimilation.
o
Numerical calculation methods, including model resolution.
o
Physical parameterizations.
o
Post-processing of model forecast output, including MOS.
We hope to encourage use
of the COMET web-based training on NWP through giving a flavor of the material
therein contained in this lesson.
Topics in Polar
Low Forecasting
[1]
1.5
hours
Product
Description:
This module presents an
overview of the climatology, formation, evolution, detection, and forecasting
of polar lows. The presentation has five sections: Disturbances in Cold Air
Masses; Climatology of Cold Air Vortices and Polar Lows; Monitoring and
Nowcasting of Polar Lows; Polar Lows and NWP; and Forecasting Process for Polar
Lows. It also includes a printable forecasting checklist
Understanding Data Assimilation: How Models Create Their Initial
Conditions
[3]
3-4
hours
Product
Description:
This module explains the
process by which data are used in NWP models and the ever-increasing importance
that data assimilation has on the quality of numerical forecasts. It provides
learners an appreciation for how models use data as a function of model
resolution and data type, how data influence the analysis, the limitations of
data assimilation systems, the importance of initial conditions on the quality
of NWP guidance, as well as the challenges of assessing the quality of NWP
guidance based on the initial conditions. The subject matter expert for this
module is Dr. Ralph Petersen of the National Centers for Environmental
Prediction, Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC).
Urban Flooding: It Can Happen in a Flash!
[1]
60
minutes
Product
Description:
This module features an
audio and visual tour of sites affected by the Fort Collins, Colorado urban
flood that occurred on 28 July 1997. The tour is led by Matthew Kelsch and
includes eyewitness accounts of that night's events from John Weaver. This
interactive virtual field trip module summarizes many of the important common
aspects of flash floods occurring in urban environments.
Visible and
Infrared Dust Detection Techniques
[2]
25
minutes
Product
Description:
This Webcast, presented by
Tom Lee (Naval Research Laboratory, Monterey, California) demonstrates techniques
for dust detection using standard visible and longwave infrared window channels
available worldwide on geostationary and polar-orbiting satellite instruments.
Several examples from southwest Asia and Africa demonstrate techniques such as
using control images, stretching enhancement curves, and using looping to
highlight dust features.
Wave Types and
Characteristics
[1]
1
hour
Product
Description:
This is the first in a
series of new marine meteorology modules based on COMETÕs old laser disk and
CD-ROM modules on marine meteorology. This module is an introduction to waves
and their associated characteristics. Several types of waves are presented,
from the common wind wave to the rare tsunami wave. The basic physical,
mathematical, and statistical traits of waves are discussed, along with how
they change once waves become swell. This material serves as a building block
to subsequent modules on wave generation, propagation, and dissipation.
West Coast Fog
[2]
1-2
hours (est)
Product
Description:
This is part of the
Physical Processes Professional Competency Unit of the Forecasting Low-Altitude
Clouds and Fog for Aviation Operations Professional Development Series. West
Coast Fog discusses the climatology, physical processes, and evolution of hot
spell fogs along the U.S. West Coast
What Can You Expect From the Eta-12?
[2]
75
minutes
Product
Description:
The NCEP Eta model is now
running with a grid spacing of 12 km and mixed-phase microphysics which
includes advection of falling condensate. What have we learned so far about
what the model is and is not capable of forecasting well? This session focuses
on case examples illustrating various aspects of model performance related to
how the model parameterizations work and how much detail related to topography
and surface forcing can be seen in the model fields. Some forecast verification
statistics are also shown for different regions, indicating regional variation
in performance related to the topics discussed. A model fix to heat fluxes
through snowcover is explained and its impact on the forecast and analysis is
shown. Finally, two new developments being tested are summarized - use of a
nonhydrostatic, hybrid sigma-pressure coordinate model for the high-resolution
window runs and interfacing with the HYSPLIT dispersion model for use in
emergency hazardous release situations
Writing Effective TAFs
NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ADV WEA FCST CREDIT
2
hours
Product
Description:
This module provides an overview of some of the applicable TAF Amendment and Conditional Group usage rules, as presented in the latest version of the National Weather Service Instruction 10-813 on TAF directives. It also presents a methodology for TAF writing and development that will lead to an effective and user-friendly product. The focus is on the ceiling and visibility aspects of the TAF. This module is part of the Distance Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.