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

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 presentation by Dr. Eve Gruntfest raises important issues of how floods and other disasters, including land-falling hurricanes and their related warnings, affect public attitudes and actions. Awareness of these social science considerations is important for persons responsible for public weather warnings as well as other types of public interaction.

Estimated time to complete: 30 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2001-03-26

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Description:
The “Advanced Fire Weather Forecasters Course Orientation” module introduces the organization of the course, the topics presented, and the intended audience, as well as the motivation for converting this course to online training. This web module is part of the Advanced Fire Weather Forecasters Course..

Objectives:
At the end of this module you should be able to:
1. Describe the structure of the Advanced Fire Weather Forecasters Course and component modules.

Estimated time to complete: 15 m

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2008-06-12

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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:
The “Introduction to Ensemble Streamflow Prediction” module provides basic information on probabilistic streamflow forecasting. In this webcast, Dr. Richard Koehler, the National Hydrologic Sciences Training Coordinator for NOAA's NWS, presents information about the types of organizations that might use probabilistic streamflow forecasts as well as foundation concepts and background for ESP methods. The module begins with a brief review of hydrologic models including deterministic, stochastic, and scenario-based approaches. It then provides an overview of time-series approaches including a summary of traditional techniques such as flood frequency, flood analysis, statistical analysis, and trend analysis. Finally, the module presents the basics of ESP techniques including an explanation of its strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate application. The module also provides guidance on how to interpret ensemble forecast products.

Objectives:
Describe terminology and definitions for Ensemble Streamflow Prediction, or ESP:
- Use standard language to describe ESP.
- Explain what time series, realizations, and ensembles represent.
- Describe basic processes using output from scenario-based deterministic models and traditional streamflow analysis methods.

Describe methods and techniques used in ESP:
- Describe current modeling methods and tools used in trace plots.
- Describe product output from ESP.
- Describe use of verification of ESP products.

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2007-01-30

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Description:
This Webcast provides an overview of the EUMETSAT Polar System (EPS), Europe's first dedicated operational polar-orbiting weather satellite program. EPS contributes to the Initial Joint Polar System (IJPS) under a cooperation agreement between EUMETSAT and NOAA to provide and improve operational meteorological and environmental forecasting and global climate monitoring services worldwide. The highly innovative features implemented with EPS include high-level sounding performance and enhanced data streams that further improve the capabilities of advanced NWP systems. The Webcast takes one hour to complete.

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

* Identify the three major disciplines to which EPS contributes.
* Describe the role of EPS within the Global Operational Satellite Observation System (GOSOS) and the Initial Joint Polar-Orbiting Operational Satellite System (IJPS).
* Describe the main differences between polar and geostationary satellites.
* Describe the EPS programme elements and how they contribute to the flow of data products.
* Identify the instruments on the Metop satellite and their primary applications.
* Describe the capabilities and anticipated benefits of the IASI hyperspectral sounder.
* Describe the main services provided by EPS.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

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:
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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Description:
Antarctica: Challenging Forecasts for a Challenging Environment features two educational pieces. The first is the overview giving the general audience a broad look at Antarctica including some history, interesting facts, real-life experiences, climate, and the challenges inherent to this frozen continent. The second is the main presentation where experts in Antarctic research and forecasting, share their knowledge of the continent. They discuss forecasting challenges as well as present and future research topics while providing elaborations on the uniqueness in Antarctica’s location, topography, and forecasting techniques as compared to other parts of the globe.

Objectives:
1. Give the general audience a basic understanding of the uniqueness of Antarctica.
2. Give prospective Antarctic forecasters or meteorology students an understanding of the challenges in forecasting weather in Antarctica.
3. Provide students an overview of the tools used to monitor and forecast Antarctica’s weather.
4. Describe the connection of Antarctica with the rest of the earth’s climate system and the research that seeks to discover how it influences that system.

Estimated time to complete: 90 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2007-08-14

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Description:
This module discusses how to apply various observational data and remote sensing tools such as satellite, METARS, soundings, profilers, radar, and model analyses to diagnose the potential for fog and/or low stratus. Various forecast tools (such as model forecast fields, forecast soundings, and BUFKIT) used to assess fog and/or low stratus potential onset, intensity, and duration are also examined. This module is part of the Distance Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.

Objectives:
• Apply various observational data and remote sensing tools such as satellite, METARS, soundings, profilers, radar, and model analyses to diagnose the potential for fog and/or low stratus
• Apply various forecast tools such as model forecast fields, forecast soundings, and BUFKIT to assess fog and/or low stratus potential onset, intensity, and duration

Estimated time to complete: 3 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2003-06-28

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Description:
This module addresses the local and regional climatological considerations and presents tools and methodologies that can be used to assess whether atmospheric conditions can foster fog or low stratus development. Knowing your local climatology and assessing whether it supports favorable conditions for fog or low stratus development is an important step in the forecast process. A number of physical conditions that determine fog or stratus development are largely dictated by climatological restraints, as well as the synoptic pattern. This module is part of the Distance Learning Course 1: Forecasting Fog and Low Stratus.

Objectives:
Understand how climate data can be applied to the forecast process
• Understand the strength and limitations of the various types of climate data and their application to fog and stratus forecasting
• Demonstrate an ability to correctly apply climate data to fog and stratus forecasting

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: no

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2003-06-28

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Description:
The “Assessing Fire Danger” distance learning module explores techniques for recognizing weather and fuel conditions contributing to fire danger. The module includes a matrix of data sources offering useful weather, fuels, and other information related to fire ignition, spread, and intensity. An overview of situational awareness practices provides information relevant to forecasters in the office or field. This module is part of the Advanced Fire Weather Forecasters Course.

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

1. Describe the fire “setup” stage and identify weather patterns that lead to fuel dryness,
2. understand fuel dryness evolution and how it relates to the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS),
3. describe specific fire weather and fuel data sources that aid in determining fuel susceptibility,
4. apply situational awareness concepts to fire weather forecasting operations.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: no

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

Last published on: 2008-03-31

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Description:
This case exercise looks at a barrier jet event over central and eastern Colorado that took on historic significance in terms of snow amounts and variability in snow distribution. The module emphasizes the mechanisms for producing both very large accumulations and extreme small-scale variability. These mechanisms involved both dynamic and thermodynamic processes in this storm. Model and observed analyses and forecasts are considered in detail as the storm unfolds.

Objectives:
• Analyze a Rocky Mountain Front Range heavy precipitation event to determine the influence of a barrier jet on both precipitation type and amount.
• Forecast critical storm features in a barrier jet case, including winds and precipitation type and intensity.
• Monitor the development of the barrier jet features in the context of the larger-scale forcing.
• Examine the important processes governing the termination of the storm.

Estimated time to complete: 2-3 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2006-07-27

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Description:
This brief presentation provides an overview of the COMET Basic Hydrologic Sciences course including: goal and target audiences, structure of the course and adapting it to your needs, and a brief description of course components.

Objectives:
1. Describe goal and target audiences of the COMET Basic Hydrologic Sciences course.

2. Be familiar with the structure of the Basic Hydrologic Sciences course and how to adapt it to your needs.

3. Briefly describe the course components of the Basic Hydrologic Sciences course.

Estimated time to complete: 15 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2007-10-01

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Description:
“Basic Terminal Forecast Strategies” is the first component of the Distance Learning Course 2, Producing Customer-Focused TAFs. Basic Terminal Forecast Strategies is comprised of two lessons that provide 1) an introduction to understanding aviation customers and their needs and 2) a technique to meet those needs by producing clear, concise, and consistent terminal aerodrome forecasts (TAFs).

Objectives:
1. Identify aviation customer groups and describe how they use TAFs.
2. Recognize common terminal forecast problems that adversely impact customers.
3. Analyze TAFs to determine which would be considered "good" or "poor" by customers.
4. Describe how overuse of conditional terms (e.g., TEMPO) lowers forecast verification scores and impedes effective customer decision-making.
5. Describe the relationship between aviation verification scores and customer satisfaction.
6. Create a Practically Perfect TAF (PP TAF) that meets common customer needs.

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

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:
This case exercise takes an in-depth look at a blowing snow event in the northern mainland of Canada. The case addresses specific low-level wind and snow conditions. Model data, satellite imagery, and observations are provided for assessing the potential for blowing snow and blizzard conditions as the event unfolds.

Objectives:
1. Review the winter climatology of this central Canadian region.
2. Recognize the specific low-level wind and snow conditions conducive to blowing snow/blizzard conditions.
3. Recognize the common synoptic patterns associated with a blowing snow event.
4. Consider the wind speed and direction forecasts for this event.
5. Examine the cessation of blowing snow conditions, from a forecasting standpoint.

Estimated time to complete: 60 min

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2004-11-08

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Description:
This case examines an event that took place over New England and the Mid-Atlantic on 14 June 2001. As the culminating exercise for lessons 1 and 2 of the Distance Learning Aviation Course 1 (DLAC1) on Fog and Stratus Forecasting, its objectives are to 1) identify the preconditions favorable for fog or stratus development; 2) identify synoptic and local processes that influence the event; 3) assess onset time, duration, dissipation, and intensity; and 4) develop a TAF that reflects expected changes in ceiling and visibility. The module is a re-creation of several live teletraining sessions offered in 2003 as part of DLAC1.

Objectives:
• Identify the preconditions favorable for fog or stratus development
• Identify both the synoptic and local processes that will be influencing the event
• Determine the details of the forecast in terms of the onset time, the duration, and the time of dissipation, as well as the intensity of the event
• Assess how the fog or stratus event will affect ceiling and visibility
• Write a TAF forecast that reflects those changes in ceiling and visibility

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2004-07-15

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Description:
This case study focuses on making a forecast and writing a TAF so that it best represents the meteorological situation to aviation customers. During the exercise, the student prepares a forecast for Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As part of the Distance Learning Aviation Course 1 (DLAC1) on Fog and Stratus Forecasting, the exercise applies concepts taught in the rest of the course, with special emphasis on determining the impacts on airfield flight operations and creating a TAF that describes those impacts. The module is a re-creation of several live teletraining sessions offered in 2003 as part of DLAC1.

Objectives:
• Use model analyses, forecast products, soundings, and climatology to write a customer-friendly TAF
• Evaluate the impacts of forecasted ceiling and visibility conditions on the airfield operations
• Verify the accuracy and usefulness of your TAF

Estimated time to complete: 2 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2004-07-15

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Description:
During this presentation, Dr. Brad Colman (NOAA/NWS) covers both the philosophical and methodological approaches to weather forecasting in general, with a special emphasis on challenges introduced in areas of complex terrain. The insightful comments made by the presenter regarding recommended approaches to applying conceptual models, mesoscale model output, and decision trees in the forecast process are useful to anyone who predicts the weather.

Objectives:
• Review the forecast process.
• Become aware of the challenges of forecasting in the diverse terrain of the Western U.S.
• Review the characteristics of mesoscale circulations.
• Describe the impact of complex terrain on simple geostrophic flow.
• Compare and contrast objective and subjective forecasting techniques.

Estimated time to complete: 35 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2003-12-22

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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:
This Webcast features Heather Hauser of NOAA/ERH/SSD describing the utility of and introducing the methodology for conducting composite analysis as part of the NWS Climate Services program. This 30-minute presentation is intended to introduce climate focal points to the composite analysis process and will be a useful prerequisite to attending the Operational Climate Services residence courses, where the topic will be explored further. Composite analysis is the foundation of a forthcoming local climate-related product, the "3 Month Outlook of Local El Nino/La Nina Impacts."

Objectives:
1. To describe the rationale and utility of composite analysis

2. To identify other training available on composite analysis

3. To ensure that climate focal points know the operational roles and expectations at NWS field offices, and

4. To describe the general methodology for conducting composite analysis

Estimated time to complete: 30 min

Includes audio: yes

Required plug-ins:   Flash RealPlayer Java Adobe® Reader®
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Last published on: 2005-07-01

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Description:
This module presents an overview of how satellite data are turned into the satellite products used by operational forecasters and the research and educational communities, etc. The module begins by describing the process of creating simple image products that use relatively simple image manipulation techniques to highlight properties such as wind-blown dust, vegetation, and cloud phase. The module then describes some of the more complex processes involved in generating quantitative products, such as cloud identification, atmospheric instability, wildfire characterization, and sea surface temperature. Finally, the module introduces advanced products that use the thousands of channels on hyperspectral instruments to derive a variety of geophysical parameters related to the characterization of aerosols, trace gases, cloud microphysics, and atmospheric profiling, etc. The discussion of quantitative products uses the example of the Meteosat cloud mask, which indicates whether a pixel in a satellite image is clear or cloudy. Cloud mask products are important to all environmental satellites in that they form the basis for many other derived products.

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

* List the benefits of using satellite products.
* For the three levels of products (simple, quantitative, and “cutting edge”), define the type of product, describe its advantages and, on a very basic level, some of the production techniques and strategies, and identify several products generated by it.
* Describe the purpose and function of cloud mask products.
* Describe some of the sources of error in the product generation process.

Estimated time to complete: 1 h

Includes audio: yes

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

Last published on: 2008-06-23

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