MetEd: Meteorology Education and Training. Operated by the COMET Program

Description:
This self-paced course discusses the basic principles of warm season convective weather with the aim of improving the prediction of significant and severe convection.

The course organizes relevant modules and Webcasts on the MetEd Website into two sections: Core Topics and Advanced Topics. By using our Registration & Assessment system, you can track your progress in one or both parts of the course and receive a course completion certificate.

Estimated time to complete: 16-22 h

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Description:
In order to help forecasters build a strategy for anticipating convective storm structures, their evolution, and the potential for severe weather, A Convective Storm Matrix provides learners the opportunity for extensive exploration of the relationship between a storm's environment and its structure.

The matrix is composed of 54 four-dimensional numerical simulations based on the interactions of 16 different hodographs and 4 thermodynamic profiles. By comparing animated displays of these simulations, learners are able to discern the influences of varying buoyancy and vertical wind shear profiles on storm structure and evolution.

A series of questions guides the exploration and helps to reveal key storm/environment relationships evident in the matrix. A synopsis of the physical processes that control storm structure, as well as the current conceptual models of key convective storms types, is included for reference.

Subject matter expects for A Convective Storm Matrix: Buoyancy/Shear Dependencies include Mr. Steve Keighton, Mr. Ed Szoke, and Dr. Morris Weisman.

Note: This module was originally published on CD-ROM in March 1996 (v1.1) and re-released in 2001 as v1.3 for Microsoft Windows users only. CD-ROM version 1.3 works fairly well with Windows 98/ME/NT4/2000 but has reported to be problematic with Windows XP. Users of version 1.1 should obtain the patch located at http://www.comet.ucar.edu/help/ModuleSupport/matrix_problem.htm or use the new, Web-based module.

Estimated time to complete: 3-4 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-04-09

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Description:
This module includes an interactive MCS Matrix of numerical simulations illustrating the physical processes controlling MCS evolution, as well as an archive of the entire Web module, Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes.

Patterned after the CD Module A Convective Storm Matrix, the new MCS Matrix provides learners the opportunity for extensive exploration of the relationship between a MCSs environment and its structure. The matrix is composed of 21 four-dimensional numerical simulations based on the interactions of 10 different hodographs with a common thermodynamic profile. By comparing animated displays of these simulations learners are able to discern the influences of vertical wind shear and the Coriolis Force on MCS structure and evolution.

A series of questions guides the exploration and helps to reveal key storm/environment relationships evident in the matrix.

The subject matter expert for this module is Dr. Morris Weisman.

Note: This module was originally published 5/28/99 as a CD-ROM (v1.0) as dual module along with a local copy of the Web module Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes (v3.0). The CD-ROM version of An MCS Matrix (1.0) works fairly well with Windows 98/ME/NT4/2000 but has reported to be problematic with Windows XP. Windows XP Users of version 1.0 should use the new, Web-based module.

Estimated time to complete: 3-4 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-04-17

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This module is not available on the Web. To order a CD, please see our contact information.

Description:
The primary purpose of the Anticipating Convective Storm Structure and evolution module is to provide forecasters a strategy for anticipating storm structures, their evolution, and the potential for severe weather, based on an understanding of the physical processes that control their development. Because convective storms develop rapidly, having the right set of expectations of what is possible and probable within the storm environment will allow forecasters to better manage their activities during a convective event.

A traditional approach to teaching about convective storms has been to discuss several classic storm types that reveal distinctive structural elements. However, these classic storm types are not the norm. In nature, thunderstorms exist along a continuous spectrum of possible structures rather than always falling into discrete categories. Storms often exhibit qualities of more than one classic type or evolve from one type into another during their life cycle. For this reason, this module examines convective storms based on the predominant physical processes involved in their development that tend to place them in a particular region of the spectrum.



Because forecasters also need to accurately monitor the evolution of convective storms in order to issue timely weather warnings and statements, this module will also demonstrate methods for monitoring storm evolution through the available data (in particular, modern radar data), based on a thorough understanding of the current conceptual models of convective storms. Numerous interactions and a set of summary exercises are included. Summary Page--Key Points to Remember are available online at http://meted.ucar.edu/convectn/mod8sumpag.pdf.



Subject matter expects for Anticipating Convective Storm Structure and Evolution include Dr. Morris Weisman, Steve Keighton, and Ed Szoke.

Estimated time to complete: 8-10 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1997-04-29

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Description:
Hazardous weather affects us all. To help local emergency managers cope with weather hazards they may face, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) offer a course titled Hazardous Weather and Flooding Preparedness. However, many people who make weather-related decisions are unable to attend this 2-3 day course.

The purpose of this Web-based course, Anticipating Hazardous Weather and Community Risk, is to provide background on weather and weather hazards for emergency managers and other decision makers. This course is intended to complement on-site courses offered by FEMA and NWS, so that they can focus on local hazards and community risk factors.

This course covers:

• Weather: How and why it forms
• Hazardous weather: Fact sheets on different phenomena
• Forecasting weather: The forecast process and products issued by the NWS
• Warning Partnership: How the NWS and emergency managers generate and communicate warnings
• Desktop Exercise: An opportunity to apply what you have learned in a flash flood scenario

FEMA Independent Study credit is available for those who complete the course and pass the exam. The subject matter experts for Anticipating Hazardous Weather and Community Risk are Randall C. Duncan, CEM - Sedgwick County (KS) Emergency Management, Bob Glancy - NWS, Bob Goldhammer - Polk County (IA) Emergency Management, Curt Nellis - County of Shenandoah (VA) Department of Fire and Rescue, John Ogren - NWS, and Bruce Sterling - Portsmouth (VA) Emergency Management.

Objectives:
• Explain basic processes that cause and/or signal hazardous weather
• List the main weather hazards and the factors that determine community risk
• Describe the basic weather forecasting process and its limitations
• Discuss various techniques for communicating information about weather hazards
• Distinguish which NWS forecast products are appropriate in various situations
• Analyze various source of information about a weather hazard and formulate a plan for dealing with a potential disaster

Estimated time to complete: 4-5 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2001-03-08

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Description:
In this Southern Hemisphere-focused module, the student can work through one major Australian severe thunderstorm event in detail and examine aspects of two other severe thunderstorm events as well. Follow a forecast time-line to assess data and make decisions from the pre-storm phase through the warning phase.



NOTE: The Bureau of Meteorology owns this module, NOT the COMET Program.

Estimated time to complete: 4-6 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-04-23

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Description:
Tropical waves are prolific rainfall producers that sometimes form tropical cyclones. Conceptual models of tropical waves are used to help learners understand the dynamical characteristics and evolution of tropical waves. Users will learn about the vertical and horizontal structure of tropical waves and the typical weather changes that accompany the passage of a tropical wave. Four different methods of tracking tropical waves are also provided. The Webcast is presented by Mr. Horace Burton and Mr. Selvin Burton of the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology under the auspices of the MeteoForum Project.

Objectives:
After completing this Webcast, users should be able to:

• Define tropical waves and state why they are important


• Describe the typical wavelength, frequency, propagation speed, and direction of tropical waves


• Describe the horizontal structure and vertical structure of tropical waves in terms of winds, moisture and temperature


• Describe the lifecycle of Reihl's Classical easterly wave in terms of wind velocity, relative humidity, clouds, and precipitation


• Identify tropical waves based on Frank's Inverted 'V' model, i.e., banded clouds in the shape of an inverted 'V'


• Describe the relationship between the upper and lower troposphere flow in Frank's conceptual model


• Describe the characteristics of African waves including their origin, wavelength, and relative intensity between inland and the coast


• Describe the typical distribution of divergence in African waves


• Describe the distribution of vorticity in African waves


• Describe the distribution of clouds and precipitation in African waves


• Understand that inter-annual variations in the frequency and strength of African waves are correlated with the occurrence of intense Atlantic storms


• Detect and track tropical waves using satellite imagery, satellite-derived surface winds, wind profiles, and model output

Estimated time to complete: 35 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-04-21

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Description:
Chapter 5, Tropical Variability, is the fourth published chapter of the online textbook, Introduction to Tropical Meteorology. This chapter presents an overview of the major cycles dominating intraseasonal and interannual variability in the tropics. Characteristic atmospheric and oceanic patterns for each oscillation are presented and methods for tracking the evolution of these cycles are described. Observations and conceptual models of equatorial waves are presented. Classical solutions for equatorial waves are outlined and the effects of moisture on the expression of these waves are discussed. Since the tropics are not an isolated region of the globe, the impacts of these cycles on higher latitudes are also explored. In view of the recent interest on the effects of long-term climate variability, the potential role of multidecadal oscillations in modulating these shorter cycles is discussed.

Objectives:
At the end of this chapter, you should understand and be able to:
o Describe the basic structure and time scale of the MJO
o Discuss the mechanisms that form the MJO
o Explain the role of the MJO in atmospheric and oceanic variability
o Describe the general characteristics of equatorial waves (Kelvin waves, Rossby waves, Mixed Rossby-Gravity waves) including length scale, duration, and speed
o Explain equatorial wave formation mechanisms graphically or mathematically
o Describe the Walker Circulation
o Define the Southern Oscillation Index
o Describe ENSO in terms of onset, maximum amplitude, and duration
o Describe the previous and current theories of ENSO (from Bjerknes to recent theories such as the delayed oscillator theory or chaotic theory)
o Compare and contrast the warm phase (El Niño) and cold phase (La Niña) patterns in terms of atmospheric and oceanic anomalies across the equatorial Pacific
o Describe at least five climate impacts of El Niño (e.g., drought in Australia, heavy rains in Peru, more winter cyclones across the southern US and the Caribbean, less hurricanes in the Atlantic)
o Describe at least five climate impacts of La Niña (e.g., increased rainfall in West Pacific, drier winter in the southeastern US, wetter summers in the Caribbean and Central America)
o Define the Quasi Biennial Oscillation
o Describe its impact on tropical climate (e.g., influencing seasonal tropical cyclone formation)
o Provide a brief description of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, and the North Atlantic Oscillation
o Describe at least one mechanism by which the tropics can force decadal extratropical variability in the North Atlantic and the North Pacific
o Describe at least one impact of decadal fluctuations on interannual and intraseasonal variability

Estimated time to complete: 2 - 3 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-03-19

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Description:
Chapter 6, The Distribution of Moisture and Precipitation, is the second published chapter of the online textbook, Introduction to Tropical Meteorology. Moisture and precipitation distribution governs life in the tropics. Surplus heating and rising motion in the tropics ignites the global water and energy cycles and influences weather in the midlatitudes. Chapter 6 presents the horizontal and vertical distribution of water vapor, tropical cloud formation and distribution, the lifecycle and precipitation characteristics of tropical mesoscale convective systems, and the variability of tropical precipitation on yearly, seasonal, and hourly time-scales. The online textbook has many special features including individual chapter review questions and quiz, topic focus sections, direct access to operational forecasting topics, box sections that elaborate on theoretical concepts, links to resources for further study, critical thinking questions interspersed throughout the text, icons that identify resource links and critical thinking exercises, and science biographies.

Objectives:
At the end of this chapter, you should understand and be able to describe:

* Why water vapor is important to weather and climate in the tropics
* The range and distribution of water vapor content in the tropics
* The distribution of evaporation and evapotranspiration rates in the tropics
* The formation of tropical clouds by convection
* The general pattern of cloud distribution in the tropics
* The typical profiles of potential temperature (Theta) and equivalent potential temperature (Theta-e) in the tropical atmosphere
* How the Saharan Air Layer and other dry intrusions changes the vertical distribution of moisture thermodynamic energy
* The concept of moist and dry static (thermodynamic) energy and its vertical distribution in the tropics
* How the vertical distribution of moist static energy varies with different modes of convection
* The differences between convective and stratiform rain in tropical mesoscale convective systems
* The effects of continental and maritime aerosols on tropical precipitation
* The geographic distribution of annual tropical precipitation and its variability
* The factors that influence the geographic distribution of tropical precipitation
* The seasonal distribution of precipitation in the tropics and unique regional patterns
* The differences between the diurnal cycle of tropical precipitation over land and over ocean, including the influential factors
* Unique characteristics of the diurnal cycle during the equatorial transition seasons (spring and autumn)
* The factors that influence the amount and location of rainfall on yearly and multi-year time scales

You should also be able to identify and describe:

* The factors that influence evaporation and evapotranspiration rates
* The dominant cloud types in the tropics
* The typical zonal and meridional distribution of cloud depth over the tropical oceans

Estimated time to complete: 1.5-2 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2008-03-19

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Description:
This Webcast is based on a presentation given by Dr. James T. Moore of Saint Louis University at the 5th Annual MSC/COMET Winter Weather Workshop on 30 November 2004 in Boulder, Colorado. Dr. Moore reviews many aspects of jet streak dynamics including convergence/divergence, ageostrophic winds, propagation, and coupled jets.

Objectives:
• Define "jetstreak"
• Note the divergence associated with upper-level waves
• Describe the relationship of divergence with vertical windshear
• Describe the relationship of the ageostrophic wind components with upper-level and low-level jets
• Compare the direct thermal circulation in the entrance region with the indirect thermal circulation in the exit region of an upper-level jet
• Identify how the curvature of an upper-level jet affects divergence and convergence
• Describe the impact thermal advection has on vertical motion and entrance and exit circulations
• Gain an understanding of the characteristics of unbalanced jets and coupled jets

Estimated time to complete: 50 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2005-04-25

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Description:
This module presents current conceptual models of several MCS types and provides explanations for the structures and behavior of MCSs based on the physical processes underlying their evolution. An understanding of the physical processes and conceptual models of MCSs will help forecasters to predict the most likely locations of severe weather within existing systems and to forecast the longevity, areal extent, and path of the system.

Accompanied by conceptual animations, numerical simulations, and case studies, Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes presents strategies with which the forecaster can identify the potential for long-lived MCSs and attendant severe weather.

Estimated time to complete: 4-6 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-05-28

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Description:
This Webcast features NWS forecaster Matthew J. Bunkers presenting the results of a study originally presented at the 19th AMS Conference on Severe Local Storms and published in the February 2000 issue of the AMS journal Weather and Forecasting. It is delivered as a streaming audio lesson with accompanying text and graphics.

In this presentation Mr. Bunkers presents a statistically superior method for predicting supercell motion regardless of the shape or location of the shear profile on the hodograph plot. The method is a modification of the method presented by Dr. Morris Weisman in the COMET Program CD module, Anticipating Convective Storm Structure and Evolution, and was developed based on 225 actual supercell events.

Estimated time to complete: 30 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1999-06-10

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Description:
This module provides a brief overview of Buoyancy and CAPE. Topics covered include the origin of atmospheric buoyancy, estimating buoyancy using the CAPE and Lifted Index, factors that affect buoyancy including entrainment of mid-level air, water loading, convective inhibition, and the origin of convective downdrafts. This module delivers instruction with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.

Objectives:
Terminal Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to do the following:
1. Describe how buoyancy contributes to formation of a convective storm and its related updrafts and downdrafts
2. Define CAPE, LI, and CIN and describe how they can be used to forecast convective activity

Enabling Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to do the following:
1. Define buoyancy and list factors that tend to increase buoyancy
2. Describe the life cycle of a convective storm
3. Define CAPE and describe how CAPE is determined on a skew-T/log-P diagram
4. Define Lifted Index (LI) and describe how LI is determined on a skew-T/log-P diagram
5. Describe how CAPE differs from Lifted Index
6. Define Convective Inhibition (CIN) and list factors that tend to increase CIN
7. Given 2 soundings, choose the soundings that will give the stronger updraft or downdraft

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-07-24

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Description:
This module provides a basic understanding of how to plot and interpret hodographs, with application to convective environments. Most of the material previously appeared in the CD module, Anticipating Convective Storm Structure and Evolution, developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographs includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. The module comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.

Objectives:
Terminal Objectives
1. By the end of this module you will be able to plot and use a hodograph to determine wind shear

Enabling Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to do the following:
1. Given a vertical profile of wind speed and direction, plot a hodograph on a polar coordinate chart
2. Describe how to use a hodograph to determine the vertical wind shear between two levels
3. Given a hodograph, determine the total magnitude of vertical wind shear, the mean shear direction, and the mean wind and storm motion from a hodograph

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-10-28

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Description:
This module discusses the role of wind shear in the structure and evolution of convective storms. Using the concept of horizontal vorticity, the module demonstrates how shear enhances uplift, leading to longer-lived supercell and multicell storms. The module also explores the role of shear in the development of mesoscale convective systems, including bow echoes and squall lines. Most of the material in this module previously appeared in the COMET modules developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. This version includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. The module comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.

Objectives:
Terminal Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to describe the influence that vertical wind shear has on convective storm behavior

Enabling Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to do the following:
1. Describe how and where interaction between a thunderstorm outflow (the cold pool) and the environmental wind shear lead to enhanced uplift and formation of new convective cells
2. Describe the vertical wind shear conditions that maximize the uplift along the downshear edge of the cold pool
3. Describe the origin of updraft tilt in a convective cell
4. Describe the different vertical shear characteristics for supercell storms and mesoscale convective systems (MCSs)

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2003-11-18

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This module is not available on the Web. To order a CD, please see our contact information.

Description:
Satellite Meteorology: Case Studies Using GOES Imager Data is a continuation of the first module in the satellite meteorology series, Satellite Meteorology: Remote Sensing Using the New GOES Imager. This module includes a winter and summer severe storm case as well as a tutorial on tropical storms. It provides many opportunities to view and interpret GOES imager data and integrate those data with model, radar, and other data types. Additional material and exercises will be available on the COMET home page.

The subject matter experts for this module are Dr. James F. Purdom and Dr. Ray Zehr.

Estimated time to complete: 2-3 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 1997-01-01

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Description:
Mesoscale convective systems occur worldwide and year-round and are accompanied by the potential for severe weather and flooding. This module describes typical system evolution by examining squall line, bow echo, and MCC characteristics throughout their life cycles. This module has less emphasis on the physical processes controlling MCS structure and evolution than our previously released module, Mesoscale Convective Systems: Squall Lines and Bow Echoes. Instead, this newly updated module includes more material on tropical squall lines, MCC's, and on NWP’s ability to predict convective systems. The module starts with a forecast scenario and concludes with a final exam. Rich graphics, audio narration, and frequent interactions enhance the learning experience.

Objectives:
After completing this module, you should be able to do the following things.

Introduction to MCS Characteristics

• Recall the definition of an MCS
• Recall common types of MCS organization, especially squall lines and bow echoes
• List the potential weather hazards most likely associated with MCSs
• Identify key features associated with MCS initiation and evolution
• Recognize a likely MCS in radar imagery

Squall Lines

• Identify the various forms and compositions of squall lines
• Locate key squall line structures, including the cold pool, leading gust front, and rear-inflow jet
• Recall evolution of the surface pressure pattern during the lifetime of a squall line
• Explain the types of squall line formation
• Identify the phases of squall line evolution
• Using satellite and radar imagery, recognize the type and phase of a squall line
• Explain what determines if a squall line will be weak-to-moderate or moderate-to-strong
• Quantify low-level shear and identify which vertical wind shear most controls squall line strength
• Recall movement of long lines versus short lines, and movement of cells within a line
• Identify line back building and recognize conditions which support it
• Describe a line echo wave pattern and identify one from radar data
• List the differences between tropical and extratropical squall lines

Bow Echoes

• Define bow echoes and identify weather patterns conducive to their development
• Explain what a rear-inflow notch is and how to assess it with the MARC technique
• Discuss the factors that contribute to bow echoes being an especially severe form of MCS
• Describe the most likely time of onset and location of damaging winds from a bow echo
• Describe the characteristics of a derecho

Mesoscale Convective Complexes (MCCs)

• Recall how MCCs are defined via satellite imagery
• Describe where MCCs usually occur
• List the potential weather hazards associated with MCCs
• Explain what an MCV (or MVC) is and its relationship to an MCC
• Recognize the signature of an MCV from satellite imagery
• Recall why it is important to monitor an MCV

MCSs and Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP)

• List model convection issues and describe their impact on forecast elements
• Describe the difference between a model with convective parameterization and one without
• List the relative strengths and weaknesses of using a model with higher resolution (10 km WRF) versus one with lower resolution (22 km Eta)
• Describe common NWP limitations and errors related to forecasting large-scale convection
• Explain how model output should be applied to forecasting MCS occurrence

Estimated time to complete: 2-4 h

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2004-09-24

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Description:
Meteorologists typically examine atmospheric soundings in the course of preparing a weather forecast. The skew-T / log-P diagram provides the preferred method for analyzing these soundings. This module comprehensively examines the use of the skew-T diagram. It explores thermodynamic properties, convective parameters, stability assessment, and several forecast applications. The module is designed for both instruction and reference. It also comes with an interactive Web-based skew-T diagram that calculates several common forecast parameters.

Objectives:
Module Goal
The goal of this module is to teach the novice forecaster to effectively use the skew-T/log-P diagram. After completing the module, they should be able to read and interpret a sounding plotted on a skew-T/log P diagram and apply that information to a weather forecast.

Performance Objectives

1. Given a skew-T/log-P diagram, identify and describe the various lines.


2. Given a sounding plotted on a skew-T/log-P diagram:




• Read or calculate the thermodynamic properties at various levels.


• Determine the convective levels, including the LCL, CCL, LFC, MCL, EL, and MPL.


• Determine stability indices such as LI, SSI, KI, TT, and SWEAT and use them to assess the potential for severe weather.




3. Describe how CAPE and CIN are determined.


4. List and describe the different types of stability and identify them in a sounding plotted on a skew-T diagram


5. List and describe the different types of lapse rates and relate them to stability.


6. List and describe processes that alter stability and give examples of common cases where those processes occur.


7. Given a suitable synoptic environment and a sounding plotted on a skew-T/log-P diagram, interpret the sounding with regard to common forecast problems.

Estimated time to complete: 6-8 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2006-10-04

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Description:
This Webcast introduces the SPoRT Center, a joint NASA and National Weather Service project to provide unique NASA datasets to several forecast offices and evaluate their usefulness and impact on forecast operations. The presentation provides a description of the SPoRT Center, examples of its collaborations with weather forecast offices, and demonstrates use of MODIS data, AMSR-E derived products and lightning flash density product applications. It also includes mention of the projects the SPoRT Center will likely undertake in the future. The information contained in this Webcast reflects the status of the SPoRT program as of the summer of 2006. Since the SPoRT program evolves to meet NASA program objectives, some of the capabilities or activities portrayed in this presentation may have changed since its original production.

Objectives:
After completing the Webcast the learner will be able to:

• Describe the SPoRT program
  
• State the mission of the SPoRT program
  
• State advantages of using MODIS true-color imagery
  
• Explain how higher resolution MODIS data can complement GOES and insitu data
  
• State the advantages of AMSR-E data for coastal forecasters.
  
• State an advantage of using MODIS SST data for model initialization
  
• State how the SPoRT program works with local, regional, and national levels of the NWS
  
• Describe North Alabama Lightning Array data sets and their contribution to forecasting convection
  

  Estimated time to complete: 1 h

  Includes audio: yes

  Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
   * Plug-in information

  Last published on: 2007-02-28

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Description:
"Writing TAFs for Convective Weather" uses a case to show how special tools and techniques can be used to produce a Practically Perfect TAF (PPTAF) for convection. The unit examines how to create TAFs for different types of convection and how to effectively communicate logic and uncertainty in an aviation forecast discussion (AvnFD) or by other means. It also addresses maintaining an effective TAF weather watch and updating the TAF proactively.

Objectives:
1. Describe how general convective hazards might impact airport operations.
2. Describe how the unique characteristics of each convective type relate to creating a TAF.
3. List the strengths and weaknesses of using BUFKIT, aircraft weather data, AWIPS Time-of-Arrival (TOA)/Lead Time and Time Series tools, satellite data, climatology, and other special tools for creating a TAF for convection.
4. Explain why the PPTAF procedure needs to be revised for convection and why the use of special tools is so important for this process.
5. Produce a PPTAF for a mesoscale convective system, air mass thunderstorms, supercell thunderstorms, or microbursts
6. Effectively articulate forecast logic and uncertainty about a TAF in an Aviation Forecast Discussion (AvnFD).
7. Ensure a TAF is consistent with previous TAFs or other products issued by both local offices and national centers.
8. Be able to run an effective weather watch by identifying beforehand when a TAF update is warranted.
9. Show the ability to update proactively, rather than in a reactive fashion.
10. Identify when coordination is necessary for the TAF and with whom it should be conducted.

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2007-07-31

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Description:
Este módulo centrado en el hemisferio sur permite trabajar en detalle con un importante evento de tormenta severa ocurrido en Australia, y también examinar los aspectos de dos otras tormentas severas. Siga una línea temporal de pronóstico para evaluar los datos y tomar decisiones desde la fase previa a la tormenta hasta la fase de alerta.

NOTA: Este módulo NO pertenece a COMET, sino al Bureau of Meteorology.

Estimated time to complete: 4 -5 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2009-02-28

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Description:
The AVN produces spurious precip "bombs." Now the Eta does too. This case provides a detailed look at Eta model forecast fields leading up to and during an event, including forecast impact and explanation of what's going on inside the model.

Estimated time to complete: 1.5 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
 * Plug-in information

Last published on: 2002-02-26

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Description:
Capítulo 6, Distribución de humedad y precipitación, es el segundo capítulo que se publica del libro de texto en línea Introducción a la meteorología tropical. La distribución de la humedad y precipitación domina la vida en los trópicos. El calentamiento en exceso y los movimientos ascendentes que se producen en los trópicos dan impulso a los ciclos energético e hidrológico globales e influyen en el régimen meteorológico de las latitudes medias. El capítulo 6 presenta la distribución horizontal y vertical del vapor de agua, la formación y distribución de las nubes en los trópicos, el ciclo de vida y las características de precipitación de los sistemas convectivos de mesoescala tropicales, y la variabilidad de la precipitación en los trópicos a escalas anuales, estacionales y horarias. El libro de texto en línea incorpora muchas características especiales, como preguntas de repaso y pruebas en los capítulos individuales, secciones de enfoque en temas particulares, acceso directo a temas de pronóstico operativo, secciones que destacan conceptos teóricos, enlaces a recursos para profundizar en el estudio del tema, preguntas de pensamiento crítico a lo largo del texto, iconos que identifican enlaces a recursos y ejercicios de pensamiento crítico, y biografías de científicos.

Objectives:
Al final de este capítulo, debería comprender y ser capaz de explicar:

* por qué el vapor de agua es importante para el tiempo y el clima en los trópicos;
* el rango y la distribución del contenido de vapor de agua en los trópicos;
* la distribución de las tasas de evaporación y evapotranspiración en los trópicos;
* la formación de las nubes tropicales por convección;
* el patrón general de distribución de las nubes en los trópicos;
* los perfiles típicos de temperatura potencial (Theta) y temperatura potencial equivalente (Theta e) en la atmósfera tropical;
* cómo la capa de aire del Sahara y otras intrusiones de aire seco cambian la distribución vertical de la energía termodinámica de la humedad;
* el concepto de energía estática seca y húmeda (termodinámica) y su distribución vertical en los trópicos;
* cómo la distribución vertical de la energía estática húmeda varía con los diferentes modos de convección;
* las diferencias entre lluvia convectiva y estratiforme en los sistemas convectivos de mesoescala tropicales;
* los efectos de los aerosoles continentales y marinos en la precipitación tropical;
* la distribución geográfica de la precipitación tropical anual y su variabilidad;
* los factores que afectan la distribución geográfica de la precipitación en los trópicos;
* la distribución estacional de la precipitación en los trópicos y sus patrones regionales particulares;
* las diferencias entre el ciclo diurno de precipitación en los trópicos sobre tierra firme y los océanos, incluyendo los factores de influencia;
* las características especiales del ciclo diurno durante las estaciones de transición ecuatoriales (primavera y otoño);
* los factores que afectan dónde llueve y la cantidad de lluvia que se produce a escalas de tiempo anuales y plurianuales.

También podrá identificar y describir:

* los factores que influyen en las tasas de evaporación y evapotranspiración;
* los tipos de nubes dominantes en los trópicos;
* la distribución zonal y meridional típica de la profundidad de las nubes sobre los océanos tropicales.

Estimated time to complete: 1.5-2 h

Includes audio: no

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Last published on: 2008-05-22

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Description:
This is a Russian translation of the COMET module, Buoyancy and CAPE, which is part of the Mesoscale Primer series. Topics covered include the origin of atmospheric buoyancy, estimating buoyancy using the CAPE and Lifted Index, factors that affect buoyancy including entrainment of mid-level air, water loading, and convective inhibition, and the origin of convective downdrafts. The translation was done by Edward Podgaisky, who visited COMET in 2003 as a IREX grant recipient to study distance learning delivery in meteorology.

Estimated time to complete: 24 min

Includes audio: yes

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Last published on: 2003-09-22

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Description:
Este módulo incluye una matriz interactiva de sistemas convectivos de mesoescala (SCM) con simulaciones numéricas que ilustran los procesos físicos que controlan la evolución de los SCM, así como también un archivo del módulo web completo, Sistemas Convectivos de Mesoescala: Líneas de inestabilidad y Ecos en forma de Arco.

La nueva matriz de SCM, que fue desarrollada después del módulo en CD titulado Una Matriz de Tormenta Convectiva, brinda a los estudiantes la oportunidad de explorar a fondo las relaciones entre el entorno de un SCM y su estructura. La matriz se compone de 21 simulaciones numéricas de cuatro dimensiones basadas en la interacción de 10 hodógrafas diferentes con un único perfil termodinámico. Mediante la comparación de una serie de visualizaciones animadas de estas simulaciones, los estudiantes estarán en condiciones de discernir la influencia de la cortante vertical del viento y la fuerza de Coriolis en la estructura y evolución del SCM. Una serie de preguntas guían la exploración y ayudan a revelar las relaciones tormenta/entorno clave que se evidencian en la matriz.

El experto en la materia de este módulo es el Dr. Morris Weisman. Los expertos en la materia del módulo web “Sistemas Convectivos de Mesoescala: Líneas de Inestabilidad y Ecos en forma de Arco” son el Dr. Morris Weisman y el Sr. Ron Przybylinski.

Estimated time to complete: 3-4 h

Includes audio: no

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Last published on: 2005-08-17

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Description:
Con el objeto de ayudar a los pronosticadores a elaborar una estrategia para anticipar las estructuras de una tormenta convectiva, su evolución, y su potencial de desarrollar tiempo severo, el módulo Una Matriz de Tormenta Convectiva brinda a los estudiantes la oportunidad de explorar a fondo las relaciones entre el entorno de una tormenta y su estructura. La matriz se compone de 54 simulaciones numéricas de cuatro dimensiones basadas en la interacción de 16 hodógrafas diferentes y 4 perfiles termodinámicos. Mediante la comparación de visualizaciones animadas de estas simulaciones, los estudiantes estarán en condiciones de discernir las influencias al variar los perfiles de la cortante vertical del viento y el empuje sobre la estructura de la tormenta y su evolución. Una serie de preguntas guían la exploración y ayudan a revelar relaciones entorno/tormenta clave que se evidencian en la matriz. Se incluye como material de referencia una sinopsis de los procesos físicos que controlan la estructura de la tormenta, así como modelos conceptuales actuales de los principales tipos de tormentas convectivas. Entre los expertos en la materia se incluyen el Sr. Steve Keighton, el Sr. Ed Szoke y el Dr. Morris Weisman.

Estimated time to complete: 3-4 h

Includes audio: no

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Last published on: 2005-08-17

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Description:
Las ondas tropicales son fenómenos capaces de producir enormes cantidades de lluvia, y a veces pueden formar ciclones tropicales. Utilizamos los modelos conceptuales de ondas tropicales para ayudar al usuario a comprender las características dinámicas y la evolución de las ondas tropicales. El usuario aprenderá sobre la estructura vertical y horizontal de las ondas tropicales y los típicos cambios en el tiempo que acompañan el paso de una onda tropical. También se proporcionan cuatro métodos distintos de seguir las ondas tropicales. Están a cargo del webcast el Sr. Horace Burton y el Sr. Selvin Burton del Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology, bajo los auspicios del proyecto MeteoForum.

Después de estudiar el módulo, el usuario podrá:

* Dar una definición de ondas tropicales y explicar su importancia.
* Describir las características típicas de longitud de onda, frecuencia, velocidad de propagación y dirección de las ondas tropicales.
* Describir la estructura horizontal y vertical de las ondas tropicales en términos de vientos, humedad y temperatura.
* Describir el ciclo de vida de una onda del este "clásica" de Reihl en términos de velocidad del viento, humedad relativa, nubes y precipitación.
* Identificar las ondas tropicales de acuerdo con el modelo de V invertida de Frank, es decir, bandas de nubes con forma de V invertida.
* Describir la relación entre el flujo de la troposfera superior e inferior en el modelo conceptual de Frank.
* Describir las características de las ondas africanas, incluido su origen, longitud de onda e intensidad relativa sobre tierra firme y en la costa.
* Describir la típica distribución de la divergencia en las ondas africanas.
* Describir la distribución de la vorticidad en las ondas africanas.
* Describir la distribución de las nubes y la precipitación en las ondas africanas.
* Comprender que existe una correlación entre las variaciones interanuales en la frecuencia e intensidad de las ondas africanas y la ocurrencia de tormentas intensas en el Atlántico.
* Detectar y seguir las ondas tropicales mediante imágenes satelitales, vientos de superficie derivados por satélite, perfiles de viento y salida del modelo.

Estimated time to complete: 35 min

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2007-11-28

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Description:
Este módulo brinda una breve descripción general de los conceptos de empuje o ascenso hidrostático y Energía Potencial Convectiva Disponible (EPCD) o CAPE, por sus siglas en inglés. Se tratan temas tales como el origen de la flotabilidad en la atmósfera, cómo estimar la fuerza hidrostática a partir de la CAPE y del índice de elevación, los factores que influyen en el empuje hidrostático, incluidos la incorporación de aire de los niveles intermedios en el interior de la nube, la carga de agua, la inhibición convectiva y el origen de las corrientes convectivas descendentes.

Objectives:
Objetivos generales
Al final de este módulo podrá:
1. Describir cómo el empuje hidrostático contribuye a formar las tormentas convectivas y las corrientes ascendentes y descendentes con ellas relacionadas.
2. Definir los términos CAPE, índice de elevación (LI) e inhibición convectiva (CIN) y describir cómo se pueden usar para pronosticar la actividad convectiva.

Objetivos específicos
Al final de este módulo podrá:
1. Definir el empuje hidrostático y enumerar los factores que tienden a aumentarlo.
2. Describir el ciclo de vida de una tormenta convectiva.
3. Definir la CAPE y describir cómo se determina en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p.
4. Definir el índice de elevación (LI) y describir cómo se determina en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p.
5. Describir cómo la CAPE difiere del índice de elevación (LI).
6. Definir la inhibición convectiva (CIN) y enumerar los factores que tienden a aumentarla.
7. Dados dos sondeos, elegir el que producirá la corriente ascendente o descendente más intensa.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

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Last published on: 2008-07-03

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Description:
Es normal examinar los sondeos atmosféricos como parte del proceso de preparación del pronóstico del tiempo. El diagrama oblicuo T-log p es uno de los métodos más difundidos de analizar estos sondeos. Este módulo examina a fondo el uso del diagrama oblicuo T-log p, y explora las propiedades termodinámicas, los parámetros convectivos, la evaluación de la estabilidad y varias aplicaciones de pronóstico. El módulo ha sido diseñado para instrucción y referencia. También incluye un diagrama oblicuo T-log p interactivo basado en web que calcula varios parámetros de predicción comunes.

Objectives:


Objetivo del módulo
El objetivo de este módulo es enseñar al meteorólogo principiante a utilizar el diagrama oblicuo T - log p de forma eficaz. Después de completar el módulo, usted debería ser capaz de leer e interpretar la representación de un sondeo en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p y aplicar la información al realizar un pronóstico del tiempo.

Objetivos prácticos

1. Dado un diagrama oblicuo T - log p, identificar y describir sus diferentes líneas.


2. Dada la representación de un sondeo en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p:


• leer o calcular las propiedades termodinámicas en diferentes niveles;


• determinar los niveles convectivos, incluidos NCA, NCC, NCL, NCM, NE y NMP;


• determinar los índices de estabilidad, como LI, SSI, KI, TT and SWEAT, y utilizarlos para calcular el potencial de tiempo severo;


3. Describir cómo se determinan la CAPE y CIN.


4. Enumerar y describir los diferentes tipos de estabilidad e identificarlos en un sondero representado en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p


5. Enumerar y describir los diferentes tipos de gradientes térmicos y relacionarlos con la estabilidad.


6. Enumerar y describir los procesos que alteran la estabilidad y dar ejemplos de casos comunes donde ocurren.


7. Dado un ambiente sinóptico apropiado y un sondeo en un diagrama oblicuo T - log p, interpretar el sondeo teniendo en cuenta los problemas de pronóstico más comunes.

Estimated time to complete: 6-8 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2008-08-21

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Description:
Este módulo centrado en el hemisferio sur permite trabajar en detalle con un importante evento de tormenta severa ocurrido en Australia, y también examinar los aspectos de dos otras tormentas severas. Siga una línea temporal de pronóstico para evaluar los datos y tomar decisiones desde la fase previa a la tormenta hasta la fase de alerta.

NOTA: Este módulo NO pertenece a COMET, sino al Bureau of Meteorology.

Estimated time to complete: 4 -5 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2009-02-28

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