The integration of meteorological satellite imagery and numerical dynamical forecast models

Abstract

Imagery of clouds, water vapour, and thermal structure as achieved in real-time from geostationary satellites can play an important role in the dynamic verification and reinitialization of numerical weather-prediction models used for short-range prediction of intense weather. By overlaying hourly interval model forecast fields over satellite imagery, the validity of the evolving forecast can be subjectively assessed and phase and amplitude errors can be diagnosed in a dynamic manner. Videographic interactive computer systems designed for the purpose should enable improved numerical weather forecasts to be made through the dynamic use of satellite imagery. This approach is demonstrated by using the Man—Computer Interactive Data Access System (McIDAS) at the University of Wisconsin for a case of the development of a cyclone over the east coast of the U.S.A.