Method and Apparatus for Short-Term Prediction of Convective Weather
Abstract
This patent describes the work of nine New England inventors on a convective weather forecast algorithm. One implementation of the method is a multiscale storm-tracking algorithm that internally determines the type and strength of existing storms-their motion, their growth and decay trends, and the locations of new storm initiation-and forecasts their evolution on the basis of models developed from thunderstorm case studies. This technique is a breakthrough in forecasting because it and * Integrates detected precipitation in a vertical plane to provide a clear two-dimensional indication of storm severity * Tracks large- and small-scale features within a storm complex * Includes explicit detection of storm growth and decay Versions of this algorithm are currently being used in the Integrated Terminal Weather System (ITWS) and the Corridor Integrated Weather System (CIWS)-two main weather forecasting systems whose products are used by operational air traffic management of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Some of this forecast technology is also being used in the National Convective Weather Forecast run at the Aviation Weather Center, in the National Center for Atmospheric Research Auto-nowcaster, and in various private-vendor forecast systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 10, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA533334
Entities
People
- Marilyn Wolfson
- Megan H. Blackwell
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology