Model Fundamentals - version 2

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Published on: 2009-11-05
Estimated time to complete: .50 - .75 h
Includes audio: no

Topic Area(s):

NWP (Modeling)

Description:

Model Fundamentals, part of the Numerical Weather Prediction Professional Development Series and the NWP Distance Learning Course, 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 covers background concepts and terminology necessary for learning from the other modules in this series on NWP.

Back in 2000, the subject matter expert for this module was Dr. Ralph Petersen of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction, Environmental Modeling Center (NCEP/EMC). Revisions to the module were made in 2009 by Drs. Bill Bua and Stephen Jascourt, from the NWP team at UCAR/COMET.

Objectives:

This introductory module presents the basic structure of an NWP model and/or Ensemble Forecast System (EFS). The student, when finished with this introduction, should be able to:

1. List the components of an NWP model or EFS.
2. Explain why some atmospheric processes need to be parameterized in NWP models.
3. List at least four processes that require parameterization in NWP models and EFS.

Keywords

ensemble forecast system, numerical weather prediction, parameterization, physical processes, NWP, EFS, computer forecast models, weather forecast models