Articles tagged with Weather Forecasting
The GOES-R Series Program has completed a successful review, demonstrating readiness to launch the new series starting in late 2015. The new satellites will provide improved weather forecasts and warnings, with enhanced imaging and atmospheric observations.
Researchers have adapted weather forecasting techniques to predict local flu outbreaks, providing weeks of warning before the peak. The system uses data assimilation and Google Flu Trends to estimate flu-related sickness in regions, allowing health officials to better prepare and make informed decisions.
A new system uses real-time data and techniques from weather forecasting to predict the timing and severity of seasonal influenza outbreaks. The forecast can inform decisions on vaccine stockpiling and school closures, ultimately improving public health preparedness.
Tropical Depression 26W is threatening islands within Micronesia with heavy rain and strong winds. NASA's TRMM satellite imagery showed large, fragmented thunderstorms containing heavy rain and towering convective towers indicating intensification.
Hurricane Sandy was a massive storm that covered 1.8 million square miles from the Mid-Atlantic to Canada and New England. NASA satellites captured its size, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph and minimum central pressure rising to 952 millibars.
Hurricane Sandy is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Mid-Atlantic region, with forecasters calling it a potential 'Frankenstorm'. NASA satellites have provided crucial rainfall data, helping predict total rainfall amounts of 6-12 inches across Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Hurricane Paul has strengthened into a hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph, posing a threat to Baja California with heavy rainfall expected between 2-4 inches. The National Hurricane Center warns of dangerous surf and tropical storm conditions along the coast by Oct 16.
Tropical Storm Nadine is expected to bring tropical storm conditions to the Azores on Oct. 3 and early Oct. 4, according to NASA data. The National Hurricane Center forecasts some weakening over the next two days, but Nadine will still be a tropical storm when it moves near or over the Azores.
Tropical Storm Nadine's center maintains a visible eye in infrared imagery, indicating its ability to withstand weakening winds. The system is expected to approach the Azores by Oct. 3, while System 96L shows potential for development into a tropical depression.
Tropical Storm Jelawat forms in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing its true-color image on Sept. 20. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 45 knots, moving west-southwest at 7 knots.
A study found that climate-prediction models excel at predicting global climate trends over 30-year time frames but struggle with shorter time frames and smaller geographical regions. The researchers used historical climate records to evaluate seven computer simulation models, revealing their reliability on different scales.
The Met Office's new 'high-top' system better warns of severe winter conditions by accounting for sudden stratospheric warmings. This improved model predicted a cold start to the 2010/11 winter, which turned out to be the second-coldest in 350 years of records.
A University of Missouri scientist suggests that earthquake hazard maps often fail due to bad assumptions, data, physics, and luck. Developing better maps and alerting people to their limitations could potentially save lives and money in areas prone to earthquakes.
Tropical Storm Tembin made landfall in southwestern South Korea, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing the storm's elongated cloud cover. The storm's central convection was decaying rapidly due to southwesterly wind shear, losing its energy.
Typhoon Tembin is intensifying and moving towards Taiwan, with forecasted landfall on August 23. Tropical Storm Bolaven is also strengthening and expected to become a typhoon as it heads northwest around August 25-26. Both storms are being closely monitored by NASA satellites.
The study reveals that horizontal convective rolls affected fire behaviour, introducing variability in wind, temperature, and humidity conditions. This new understanding has the potential to improve fire management and warning systems, providing a better guide for public warning systems and firefighting resources.
Tropical Storm 13W showed strong uplift and high cloud tops north and east of its center, indicating powerful atmosphere circulation. Forecasters expect the storm to maintain intensity while tracking into drier air, preventing further intensification.
A study by Stanford University and the World Bank found that Tanzania has the potential to increase its maize exports due to predicted dry and hot weather affecting major consumer countries. The country's diverse trading partners could help hedge against severe dry weather, allowing it to profit from exports in good years.
System 94E has a greater chance of development, with a 60% chance of becoming a tropical depression in the next two days. NASA's TRMM satellite observed heavy rainfall and intense convective storms within its area, indicating potential for cyclone formation.
A Michigan State University study reveals that easy online access and personal devices have made the digital divide disappear during vacations. People are using their phones to plan, check weather forecasts, and access local information, showing a significant shift in how travelers use technology on holiday.
The Office of Naval Research is developing advanced weather prediction models to enhance the Navy's forecasting capability, accuracy, and safety at sea. The new models, such as TC-COAMPS, enable real-time forecasting of storms' track and strength, improving warfighting advantage and reducing fuel consumption.
Researchers found that rotavirus incidence is higher during the coldest, driest months of the year in South Asia. They also discovered an association between rotavirus and vegetation density, suggesting a potential tool for disease surveillance and prevention.
The TRMM satellite observed the eastern half of Typhoon Sanvu experiencing most of the rainfall, with intense storms dropping rain at over 2 inches/hr. The storm's track is predicted to bring it close to Japan's Iwo To island on May 26.
Tropical Storm Sanvu has strengthened after passing west of Guam, with maximum sustained winds near 45 knots (52 mph) and higher gusts. Forecasters expect it to continue intensifying due to warm sea surface temperatures and light wind shear before curving northeast.
A NASA animation of GOES-13 satellite data reveals the development and movement of a massive tornado outbreak in the Great Plains on April 14-15, 2012. The animation helped meteorologists issue timely warnings that saved lives during the devastating event.
A moderate bloom could cause the closure of shellfish beds along an estimated 126-250 miles of coastline. The forecast is based on computer simulations modeling meteorological and oceanographic conditions that impact the size of the bloom.
Tropical Storm Daphne strengthened overnight, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing its cloud extent using infrared imagery. The MODIS image showed a more rounded cloud shape, indicating lessened wind shear. Maximum sustained winds near 50 knots were reported, with the storm speeding southeast at 25 knots.
Infrared NASA satellite data indicates a large upper-level storm system approaching the south central US, bringing a threat of heavy rain, gusty winds, and tornadoes to Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas. Forecasters expect 4-8 inch rainfall totals through Wednesday, with possible moderate and major river flooding.
Tropical Cyclone Irina is making a slow loop in the southern Mozambique Channel, with maximum sustained winds near 45 knots. The storm is weakening due to cool sea surface temperatures and moderate wind shear, with forecasters predicting potential dissipation in the next day or two.
Scientists will gather data on the high-altitude jet stream, which affects satellite and radio communications, using chemical tracers and instrumented payloads. The mission will help better understand the process responsible for this phenomenon, located 60-65 miles above the Earth's surface.
A NASA satellite animation has revealed the movement of a tornadic weather system that triggered at least 20 tornadoes on February 29, 2012. The animation, created using GOES-13 visible and infrared satellite imagery, shows the progression of the cold front and associated low pressure area as it moved over the central US.
A new European Union system forecast space weather launches, providing frequent and reliable web-based forecasts to protect satellite operators from space radiation damage. The system uses satellite data, ground-based measurements, and computer models to predict space weather for the region where most satellites orbit the Earth.
Researchers emphasize the need for improved computer models of black carbon and other aerosol pollutants to accurately forecast health and climate impacts. The use of satellite data from NASA-funded projects has shown that air pollution can be transported across continents, with significant effects on local and regional climate.
Cyclone Giovanna was regaining strength in the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel, with strongest thunderstorms west of its center. The storm's maximum sustained winds reached 50 knots and is expected to move slowly westward across the channel.
Cyclone Jasmine is strengthening as it approaches Vanuatu and New Caledonia, with forecasters predicting hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall. The storm's current track takes it between the two island nations, with its center expected to pass nearby on February 8.
The Space Weather Laboratory will implement ensemble forecasting, producing up to 100 computerized forecasts simultaneously, improving the reliability of space weather alerts. This new capability is crucial for protecting astronauts and NASA spacecraft from potential harm during periods of increased solar activity.
The National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System Preparatory Project has been renamed Suomi NPP in recognition of Verner Suomi's contributions to weather forecasting and climate change research. The new name reflects the mission's objective of advancing scientific knowledge of Earth and improving weather forecasts.
Researchers are developing new flight system programming that combines data analysis with aviation know-how to create safer skies. The project aims to improve the accuracy and timeliness of flight data, reducing the risk of accidents caused by outdated or incorrect information.
Tropical Cyclone Funso is intensifying in the Mozambique Channel, bringing heavy rainfall to Mozambique and Madagascar. The storm's strengthening clouds indicate a potential threat to residents still recovering from Tropical Depression Dando.
Scientists have developed a framework for predicting tornado activity up to a month out, giving communities a chance to plan and potentially aid in the understanding of whether tornadoes are growing more frequent due to climate warming.
Tropical Storm Heidi is forecast to make landfall today along Western Australia's Pilbara coast, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds. The storm's center is still north of the coast, with maximum sustained winds increasing to 63 mph.
A new study uses weather forecasting models to predict the spread of brain tumors, demonstrating the feasibility of a mathematical approach. The model, known as LETKF, provides accurate and efficient predictions of tumor growth and spread, taking into account errors in model parameters and measurement uncertainties.
Tropical Storm Washi is expected to make landfall in Surigao del Sur early tomorrow afternoon and will bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the region. Residents are advised to prepare for the storm's arrival, as it has been classified as a Category 1 tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots.
A study proposes a common root for record-breaking rainfall and historic tornado outbreaks in the US. Researchers link these events to a rare coupling between polar and subtropical jet streams originating in the western Pacific. This phenomenon, known as a 'superjet,' can carry twice as much energy as typical jet streams.
The NCAR wind forecasting system has improved the accuracy of wind energy forecasts by 35%, allowing Xcel Energy to harness wind more effectively and save ratepayers millions of dollars yearly. The system uses cutting-edge computer models and real-time observations to provide high-resolution forecasts, updated every 15 minutes.
The Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) instrument on board NASA's NPP satellite acquired its first measurements in November 2011. The data will be used to improve short-term weather forecasts up to 5-7 days in advance, and provide critical information for climate research.
Bioengineers from Rice University are testing a new law of biology to predict when critically ill patients will worsen, and which treatment is likely to prevent it. The study aims to provide clinicians with a patient-specific 'forecast' using data from electrocardiograms and other vital signs.
An international research project led by ONR aims to improve long-range weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks by studying the Madden-Julian Oscillation in the Indian Ocean. The study will provide valuable insights into climate modeling and refine global climate computer models.
NASA's TRMM satellite provided critical clues to Philippe's strengthening, revealing towering thunderstorms and intense rainfall. The satellite's data showed deep convective towers reaching heights of over 13km, indicating the storm was intensifying.
Typhoon Nesat is expected to make landfall in the northern Philippines, bringing heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and dangerous surf. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 80 knots (92 mph/148 kmh) and is forecast to cross Luzon and move into the South China Sea.
Researchers gather data in the Indian Ocean to understand tropical weather patterns and their effects on global climate. The six-month field campaign aims to improve long-range weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks.
A new model has successfully predicted Arctic sea ice conditions up to five years into the future. The research shows that measuring ice thickness in September can provide a reliable gauge for the summer's low ebb. This prediction is important for shipping, oil exploration, and conservation efforts.
Researchers will analyze social and economic impacts of atmospheric blocking events from the 20th century. They aim to develop new methods for spotting and predicting this rare weather phenomenon, which can trigger extreme conditions such as heat waves and flooding.
NASA's Aqua satellite revealed powerful convection in System 94W, strengthening it into Tropical Storm Sonca. Infrared data showed cloud temperatures and heights, aiding forecasters in predicting the storm's behavior.
Tropical Storm Maria is approaching the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph. The storm may bring 3-5 inches of rainfall to the region, with isolated totals as high as 8 inches.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new algorithm that improves climate forecast accuracy by 16 months, enabling more precise predictions for agriculture and industry, while also helping identify El Niño events
Hurricane Irene strengthened into a major hurricane on the GOES-13 satellite video, reaching Category 3 status with 115mph winds. The storm is expected to make landfall in eastern North Carolina as a major hurricane, bringing devastating damage and heavy rainfall.
A new computational model developed by researchers at Ohio State University can forecast where cholera outbreaks are likely to occur in Haiti. The model takes into account various factors, including environmental conditions and human contact, to identify typical patterns of cholera outbreaks and hotspots where control efforts are needed.
NASA's GOES-13 satellite captured the formation of Tropical Storm Don, which strengthened into a tropical depression and then storm over two days. The storm is expected to bring isolated showers and tropical storm-force winds to Texas coast, potentially providing drought relief.
Tropical Storm Nock-ten is forecast to bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and localized flooding to central Philippines. The storm is expected to weaken over land but re-energize once it enters the South China Sea.