New weather model promises more accurate forecasting
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- The National Weather Service is now using a new model, the High Resolution Rapid Refresh Model, to revolutionize the art of forecasting. The goal is to provide the public with access to detailed and more timely weather forecasts.
The Rapid Refresh model is a major update to the weather model used before. The upgrade includes a narrowing of its spatial resolution, which is four times finer than what was in use before. The new resolution allows it to see smaller-scale details, that it otherwise would have missed.
The old model shows a much coarser view at storm potential compared to the new model, which is able to target distinct areas, down to the county level. The goal is to reduce widespread hype about severe weather events and help those in targeted areas to prepare more swiftly. The biggest advantage is an upgrade to how frequent the model data will come in.
NOAA Meteorologist in charge, Nezette Rydell, says the model provides important timing updates for meteorologists. "Now National Weather Service forecasters will be able to see the forecast every hour, update it every hour, and also deliver it to us in 15 minute time increments." The time will allow forecasters to really examine the onset and also the dissipation of these storms. It will also allow for better forecasting for flooding, hail, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and heavy snowfall.
The HRRR model will also provide better forecasts for airports and pilots, helping to guide flights around hazardous weather areas.
National Weather Service meteorologists agree that nothing can beat the human forecast, but it is a fantastic tool for the meteorological community to use.
