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Items 2007 Phased array radar data used by forecasters in simulated warning environment
Real-time phased array radar (PAR) data from the NOAA National Weather Radar Testbed is being introduced to a small number of operational forecasters from National Weather Service Forecast Offices across the U.S. for the first time this spring.
The Real-time Simulation of Warning Decision-making experiment is part of the spring 2007 National Weather Radar Testbed Demonstration being conducted at the NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed in Norman, Oklahoma during parts of April, May and June, 2007.
During the real-time simulation, the forecasters will perform their usual warning decision-making duties while the lead/researcher team runs the PAR data collection. Capitalizing on the PAR’s adaptive scanning capability, the teams will choose a scanning strategy to target rapidly evolving severe weather phenomena including hail, straight-line winds, microbursts and tornadoes occurring in real-time, and examine and interpret the data using NSSL’s Warning Decision Support System – Integrated Information (WDSSII) display. If conditions warrant, a simulated warning decision will be issued.
Following each operation period, operational benefits and challenges of rapid update PAR data will be evaluated by the team.
Background: The spring 2007 National Weather Radar Testbed Demonstration involves several interrelated experiments that will investigate the utility of PAR data in forecasting, modeling, and identifying characteristics of severe weather phenomena.
Significance: The Real-time Simulation of Warning Decision-making experiment will support the development of scientifically sound severe storm guidance applications and techniques to aid forecasters in the forecast and warning process, helping to protect the aviation community and the public.
6/18/07