NSSL’s SMART-R aids California forecasters during record storm

NSSL's SMART-R mobile Doppler radar Left: The NSSL-operated SMART-R on location in California.

Below: Map of observed rainfall during the record storm.

California map showing record rainfall amounts during last winter's storms.

The Oxnard, CA NWS used Shared Mobile Atmospheric and Teaching Radar (SMART-R) data in their decision to issue a flash flood warning during the significant storm of January 5-7, 2008 in southern California. NSSL’s SMART-R crew provided low-level reflectivity images every five minutes and transmitted the data to the National Weather Service Forecast Office (NWSFO) via a new satellite internet system. The data was used to supplement local NWS radar coverage where the beam is blocked by mountainous terrain.

Last winter's storms brought record rainfall and caused an estimated 3,000 Southern California residents to evacuate their homes in four canyons previously scarred by wildfires and prone to mudslides. Gages near the Canyon burn area in Malibu received between 2.16 and 6.6 inches of rain with the storm. The NWS used SMART-R data in their decisions to issue or not issue flash flood warnings. Minor mudslides were reported in Malibu canyon but well away from any dwellings.

The SMART-R is part of a fleet of high-tech equipment used in the USGS/NOAA Demonstration Flash Flood and Debris Flow Early Warning System project to determine how more detailed measurements aid forecasters in issuing flash flood and debris flow warnings.

The Canyon Fire burn area near Malibu, CA was the site chosen for intensive research this year, and the surrounding hills were canvassed with streamgage sensors, real-time webcams and the NSSL-operated SMART-R1 from December 7, 2007 through February 25, 2008.

NSSL's Dave Jorgensen has deployed the SMART-R for the last three winter seasons near a burn area to provide real-time close-up radar data during rain events. The radar delivers reflectivity and estimated one-hour rainfall at the ridgetops of the “research” fire area. Results from the Flash Flood and Debris Flow Project will help public and emergency responders determine flash flood and debris Researchflow hazards in the post-wildfire environment and better serve society’s need for weather and water information, to protect lives and property.