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

Description:
This distance learning course provides ocean forecasters with a solid foundation for more advanced study in oceanography. The three modules that comprise this course provide introductions to tides, currents, and ocean models.

* Introduction to Ocean Tides provides an introduction to the origin, characteristics, and prediction of tides.
* Introduction to Ocean Currents discusses the origin of ocean currents in both the open ocean and in coastal areas.
* Introduction to Ocean Models discusses how models combine observations and physics to predict the ocean temperature, salinity, and currents.

Estimated time to complete: 4-5 h

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Description:
This course is composed of five core topic elements. It begins with a Webcast introducing forecasters to typical marine forecast customers and their wind and wave concerns. The second module discusses wave traits and how they change once they become swell. It serves as building block to the subsequent modules on wave generation, propagation, and dispersion. The Wave Life Cycle I: Generation module examines how wind creates waves and the inter-relationships between wind speed, wind duration, and fetch length. Following that module, Wave Life Cycle II: Propagation & Dispersion, teaches marine forecasters to manually predict how wave height and period change as waves leave their generation area, become swell, and then propagate and disperse. The final element of the course is a resource guide primarily intended for experienced forecasters that may be new to marine forecast responsibilities. The guide highlights differences between the marine boundary layer and terrestrial boundary layer winds. Course certification requires completion of these five core topic elements which takes 7 - 9 hours.

Estimated time to complete: 7 - 9 h

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Description:
This Webcast covers the ocean surface wind retrieval process, the basics of microwave polarization as it relates to wind retrievals, and several operational examples. Information on the development of microwave sensors used to retrieve ocean surface wind speed and the ocean surface wind vector (speed and direction) is also included.

Objectives:
State some key meteorological applications for ocean surface winds

• Describe the benefits of using microwave remote sensing to observe ocean winds
• Describe the differences between active and passive microwave remote sensing
• Describe in general terms, the emission, transmission, and scattering of microwave energy within the Earth-atmosphere system
• State the key assumptions for derivation of wind speed and direction from passive observation of microwave radiation
• Describe the limitations of passive microwave remote sensing and impacts on deriving wind speed and direction (this applies to both product limits and accuracy)
• Use cloud liquid water imagery to help assess the validity of the wind speed and direction vector

Estimated time to complete: 45 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2005-11-28

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Description:
This module describes the main elements to consider when analyzing wave model and buoy data. The module focuses on data products available from NOAA including spectral plots, maps, and text bulletins. East and West Coast wave-masking exercises conclude the module. The content in this module is an excerpt from the previously published COMET module Rip Currents: Forecasting.

Objectives:
At the end of this module, you should be able to do the following:

* Describe wave data available from the NDBC website and its limitations
* Using a spectral density plot for a buoy:
     (1) Determine the number of wave groups
     (2) Determine the peak period
* List the parameters that are determined by a wave model
* Describe a polar wave spectrum plot
* Describe the information available in a NWW3 text bulletin
* Use a polar wave spectrum plot to determine the following:
     (1) direction and period of wind waves and swell groups
     (2) number of wave/swell groups
* Use a NWW3 text bulletin to determine the following:
     (1) direction, period, and significant wave height of wind waves and swell groups
     (2) number of wave/swell groups
* Using buoy observations and wave model products determine the height and period of swell likely to strike a given coastline
* Describe what is meant by wave masking and how it might affect a surf forecast along the coast
* Using buoy observations and wave model products determine whether a wave model initialized well
* Describe the conditions under which a wave model simulation might be in error, and what errors might subsequently result

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2008-08-13

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Description:
This module starts with a forecast scenario that occurs along the California coast. The module then proceeds to describe the structure and climatology of these disturbances, as well as their synoptic and mesoscale evolution. The instruction concludes with a section on forecasting coastally trapped wind reversals. The module also includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. Like other modules in the Mesoscale Meteorology Primer, this module comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.

Objectives:
At the end of the module you should be able to do the following things:

With regard to characteristics of CTWRs

• Describe how pressure, temperature, and wind change with passage of a coastally trapped wind reversal (CTWR)
• Recall how quickly CTWRs propagate up the U.S. West Coast
• Recall why SLP rises after passage of a CTWR
• Locate areas likely to experience CTWRs on a physical map of the world
• Recall the frequency of CTWRs along the California coast
• Explain why CTWRs are best explained as a Kelvin wave, rather than a gravity wave

With regard to the structure of CTWRs

• Describe how the MBL changes with passage of a CTWR
• Recognize how a cross-coast profile of the MBL changes during a CTWR
• Recognize a CTWR on a wind profiler record
• Recall the height at which wind first reverses direction as a CTWR propagates
• Recall the association of stratus formation with CTWRs

With regard to the synoptic evolution of CTWRs

• Describe how MSLP, 850-mb heights, and 500-mb heights depart from climatologic norms during a CTWR
• Describe how changes in MSLP and 850-mb pressure force low-level offshore winds, and how this affects sensible weather along the coast
• Describe how variations in MSLP affect along-shore pressure gradients
With regard to the mesoscale evolution of CTWRs
• Recall how the synoptic setup forces the mesoscale offshore low
• Recall how the offshore low moves during a CTWR
• Describe how coastal mountains force ageostrophic flow
• Recall how coastal mountains contribute to warming of offshore winds
• Describe how and why a mesoscale high forms along the coast
• Recall the factors that cause northward propagation of the CTWR

With regard to forecasting CTWRs

• Recall the 3 best synoptic clues for forecasting a CTWR
• Recall where the offshore low forms with respect to the low-level offshore flow
• Recall where the stratus surge initiates with respect to the offshore low
• Describe the use and limitations of mesoscale NWP models in predicting CTWRs

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: 2002-08-06

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Description:
Fog frequently forms in response to dynamically forced changes in the boundary layer. This module examines dynamically forced fog in the coastal and marine environment, focusing on advection fog, steam fog, and west coast type fog. The focus of the module is on the boundary layer evolution of air parcels as they traverse trajectories over land and water. The module also examines mesoscale effects that impact the distribution of fog and low-level stratus over short distances. A general discussion of forecast products and methodologies concludes the module.

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

With regard to the general features of dynamically forced fog and stratus:

• Describe the differences in boundary layer characteristics and evolution for advection, West Coast, and steam fog in a marine environment
• Describe the differences in synoptic environments for advection, West Coast, and steam fog in a marine environment
• Describe the relationship of sea surface temperature to fog formation for advection, West Coast, and steam fog in a marine environment
With regard to advection fog:
• Describe the general synoptic environment that is conducive to fog formation
• List at least 2 ways that subtropical high-pressure systems contribute to the formation of advection fog
• Describe the evolution of the boundary layer along an air parcel trajectory that leads to advection fog
• Describe how sea surface temperature changes along an air parcel trajectory that leads to advection fog
• Recall the origins of strong sea surface temperature gradients
• On a world map, identify areas prone to advection fog
• Recall the seasonality of advection fog

With regard to West Coast fog and low stratus:

• Describe the general synoptic environment that is conducive to fog formation
• List at least 2 ways that subtropical high-pressure systems contribute to the formation of West Coast fog and low stratus
• Describe the evolution of the boundary layer along an air parcel trajectory that leads to West Coast fog and low stratus
• List at least 2 ways that the boundary layer cools to saturation in a West Coast fog/stratus event.
• Recall the role of upwelling in the formation of West Coast fog and low stratus
• On a world map, identify areas prone to West Coast fog and low stratus
• Recall the seasonality of West Coast fog and low stratus
With regard to steam fog:
• Describe the general synoptic environment that is conducive to fog formation
• Describe the characteristics and evolution of the boundary layer along an air parcel trajectory that leads to steam fog
• On a world map, identify areas prone to steam fog
• Recall the seasonality of steam fog events

With regard to mesoscale influences upon dynamically forced fog:

• Describe the effects of coastal topography in fog formation
• Describe how coastal jets affect fog formation and dissipation
• Describe how sea breezes affect fog formation and dissipation
• Describe the impact of local variations in sea surface temperature on fog formation and dissipation

With regard to forecasting dynamically forced fog:

• Describe the general approach to forecasting fog
• List at least 4 critical atmospheric fields to monitor in plan view when forecasting fog
• List at least 4 critical atmospheric fields to monitor in vertical profiles when forecasting fog
• Describe the limitations of NWP models in fog forecasting

Estimated time to complete: 3 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2005-03-01

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Description:
This module discusses the origin of ocean currents in both the open ocean and in coastal areas. The module focuses on the driving mechanisms for currents, along with influences that modify existing currents. Driving mechanisms include wind, horizontal density differences, and tides, while modifying effects include friction, bathymetry, and the Ekman spiral. The module concludes with a demonstration of data products and a brief overview of forecast considerations.

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

1. Identify the locations of the major and minor ocean currents and describe their origin
1. List the factors that cause ocean currents
2. Describe how each factor influences ocean currents
2. Characterize open-ocean currents in terms of temperature, volume (transport), and speed.
3. Describe the origin of strong horizontal and vertical temperature, salinity, and density gradients in both open ocean and coastal ocean environments.
4. Describe the effects of friction, bathymetry, and Coriolis force on ocean currents in both open ocean and coastal ocean environments.
5. Explain the role of ocean currents in the global distribution of heat (i.e., the earth's heat budget).
1. Define global meridional overturning circulation (MOC)
2. Describe the origin of North Atlantic Deep Water and Antarctic Bottom Water
6. Describe current prediction methods and forecast considerations

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2007-10-04

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Description:
Oceans cover over 70% of the surface of the earth, yet many details of their workings are not fully understood. To better understand and forecast the state of the ocean, we rely on numerical ocean models. Ocean models combine observations and physics to predict the ocean temperature, salinity, and currents at any time and any place across the ocean basins. This module will discuss what goes into numerical ocean models, including model physics, coordinate systems, parameterization, initialization, and boundary conditions.

Objectives:
1. Explain the similarities and differences between ocean and atmospheric modeling.
2. Explain the physical laws and processes that must be considered in developing an ocean model.
3. Explain how the physical properties of the ocean differ from those of the atmosphere.
4. Explain the processes that are built into a numerical ocean model.
5. Explain how resolution and scale are important to global, regional, and local ocean models.
6. Describe a numerical model and how it can be used as a prediction tool.
7. Explain how real-time observations and climatology contribute to ocean models.

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2007-08-06

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Description:
Ocean tides profoundly impact coastal maritime operations. This module provides an introduction to the origin, characteristics, and prediction of tides. After introducing common terminology, the module examines the mechanisms that cause and modify tides, including both astronomical and meteorological effects. A discussion of tide prediction techniques and products concludes the module. This module includes rich graphics, audio narration, embedded interactions, and a companion print version.

Objectives:
1. List and define terms used to describe tides.
2. List and define the forces that cause and modify tides.
3. Define tidal constituents.
4. Describe tidal datum and why it is important.
5. Describe tide prediction methods
6. Explain when to use tidal observations vs. models

Estimated time to complete: 45 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2006-09-22

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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:
Altimeters onboard satellites such as Jason-2 measure sea surface height and other characteristics of the ocean surface. These characteristics are linked to underlying processes and structures, making altimetry data useful for understanding the full depth of the global ocean. This 75-minute module explores major discoveries made possible by altimetry data in oceanography, marine meteorology, the marine geosciences, climate studies, the cryosphere, and hydrology. For example, altimeters have played a vital role in detecting and monitoring sea level rise and its relation to climate change. The module also describes many of the practical applications of altimetry data, for example, in hurricane forecasting and monitoring climate events such as ENSO. Finally, the module describes Jason-2, which was launched in 2008, its products and services, and the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM), of which it is a part. OSTM is a collaboration between EUMETSAT and CNES (Europe) and NOAA and NASA (United States).

Objectives:
After completing this module, learners will be able to:

* Briefly describe how satellite altimetry works
* Identify major scientific discoveries enabled by satellite altimetry in various ocean-related fields
* Describe the varied applications of altimetry data
* Identify the goals of the Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM) and Jason-2
* List the basic performance capabilities of Jason-2

Estimated time to complete: 1.00 - 1.25 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2009-06-25

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Description:
Low-level coastal jets occur along many coastlines. Winds may exceed 35 knots and lead to high waves and significant low-level vertical wind shear. Thus, low-level coastal jets present a hazard to both marine and aviation operations in the coastal zone. This core module describes the features of coastal jets and explores the conditions under which they form. Like other foundation modules in the Mesoscale Primer, this module starts with a forecast scenario and concludes with a concise summary and a final exam. By the end of this module, you should have sufficient background to diagnose and forecast coastal jets around the world and to use this knowledge to understand the implications for operational decisions.

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

With regard to the features of coastal jets:

• Describe a coastal jet; its location, size, strength, and operational impacts
• Describe the synoptic conditions that lead to a coastal jet
• Describe the boundary layer structure that results in a coastal jet
• Describe the role of coastal mountains in the formation of coastal jets

With regard to the thermal structure and forcing of coastal jets:

• Describe how a cool, well-mixed marine boundary layer leads to a baroclinic structure
• Identify an appropriate baroclinic structure for a coastal jet in a vertical cross section of potential temperature
• Given a global plot of sea level pressure, identify locations that are prone to coastal jets
• Recall the difference in conditions that lead to a coastal jet as opposed to a sea breeze
• Recall the origins of cool sea surface temperatures (SSTs)
• On a world map, identify areas prone to cold ocean currents and coastal upwelling

With regard to along-coast variations of coastal jets:

• Given a map of California or Oman, identify local regions of maximum and minimum wind speeds within a coastal jet
• Recall the correlation of wind speed with mesoscale variations in sea level pressure and thickness of the marine boundary layer
• Describe how hydraulic theory can explain variations in the thickness of the marine boundary layer

With regard to forecasting coastal jets:

• On a synoptic scale, recognize the structure that leads to a coastal jet at the surface and at 850 hPa
• On the mesoscale, recognize areas that are prone to local wind maxima within a coastal jet
• Recall which satellite sensors will help detect coastal jets

Estimated time to complete: 1-2 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2004-08-16

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Description:
The Marine Wave Model Matrix provides information on the formulation of wave models developed by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and other modeling centers, including how these models forecast the generation, propagation, and dissipation of ocean waves using NWP model forecasts for winds and near-surface temperature and stability. Additionally, information is provided on data assimilation, post-processing of data, and verfication of wave models currently in operation. Within the post-processing pages are links to forecast output both in graphical and raw form, including links for data downloads. Links to COMET training on wave processes are also provided.

Estimated time to complete: 30 min

Includes audio: no

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

Last published on: 2006-05-16

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Description:
This module examines mesoscale ocean circulation models and features and processes that they predict. These models simulate temperature, salinity, currents, and elevation in 3 dimensions through a period of time. They have sufficient resolution to simulate features like fronts, eddies, upwelling, and internal tides. In this module, we examine current operational models, limitations to model forecasts, examples of predicted ocean features, and potential applications.

Objectives:
After completing this module, you should be able to do the following things:
1. List the properties that ocean models forecast
2. Recall the size of features that mesoscale ocean models can forecast
3. Describe the assumptions that go into an ocean model
4. List the limitations to ocean model forecasts
5. Identify the following ocean structures in forecast products:
• Current systems
• Fronts
• Eddies
6. Identify the following ocean phenomena in forecast products:
• Eddy formation and dissipation
• Upwelling
• Internal tides
7. Describe operational applications of ocean models
8. Recall the major defining attributes of the following operational ocean models:
• Navy Layered Ocean Model (NLOM)
• Navy Coastal Ocean Model (NCOM)
• Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM)
• Shallow Water Analysis and Forecast System (SWAFS)
• Advanced Circulation Model (ADCIRC)

Estimated time to complete: 1.00 - 1.25 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2009-05-21

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Description:
This module presents an overview of space-based microwave remote sensing for environmental applications. It provides basic information on polar-orbiting satellite characteristics, current microwave instruments, and the imagery and products currently available from these sensors. Special attention is given to the improvements expected in the NPOESS era. This module is an introduction to other, more in-depth modules covering the science and application of cloud, precipitation, water vapor, land and sea surface observations.

Objectives:
• Describe how microwave remote sensing compliments visible and infrared observations
• Describe the general spatial and temporal coverage characteristics of microwave observations from polar-orbiting satellites
• Define data latency and explain why it occurs
• Describe the improvements to data latency coming in 2006, and then in the NPOESS era
• List several products that rely on microwave remote sensing
• Explain the fundamental difference between active versus passive remote sensing
• State the six “key” NPOESS Environmental Data Records (EDRs) considered essential to weather and climate monitoring and prediction
• Describe the importance and impact of microwave observations on numerical weather prediction models
• State the key differences between microwave and radiosonde sounding of atmospheric temperature and moisture
• Describe radio frequency interference as it relates to microwave observations, its geographical distribution, and potential impact on products

Estimated time to complete: 40 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2006-04-03

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Description:
Ocean waves near shore impact public safety, commerce, navigation, and, of course recreation. Predicting these waves has driven efforts to model them for more than two decades. This module introduces forecasters to different nearshore wave models, including phase-resolving and 1- and 2-dimensional spectral models. It describes the processes that wave models simulate, the assumptions they make, the initial and boundary conditions required to run the models, and potential sources of error in model forecasts. While focusing on SWAN, the module also examines the Navy Standard surf Model and Bouss-2D.

Objectives:
1. List the major types of nearshore wave models.
2. Describe the model output from the different types of wave models.
3. Describe how SWAN differs from deepwater wave models like WAVEWATCH III and WAM.
4. List the sources and sinks of wave energy in SWAN.
5. Describe the physical processes that SWAN simulates to accurately propagate waves.
6. List the types of initial conditions for a SWAN model simulation.
7. Explain which initial conditions are essential and under what circumstances.
8. List the data sources for initial conditions for a SWAN model run and describe how those initial conditions are applied.
9. Describe the difference between running SWAN in stationary and non-stationary modes.
10. List the advantages and disadvantages for each SWAN mode.
11. Describe the sources of error in SWAN simulations.
12. Describe how the Navy Standard Surf Model works and how it differs from SWAN.
13. List the parameters that are output from the Navy Standard Surf Model.
14. Describe the assumptions of the Navy Standard Surf Model.

Estimated time to complete: 1.00 - 1.25 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2009-05-19

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