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National Weather Service |
Forecasters must be able to integrate all types of surface observational data into the analysis of the current state of the atmosphere.
The analysis of the current state of the atmosphere requires that forecasters review and integrate information from a wide variety of atmospheric sensors. This professional competency unit deals with the surface sensors that forecasters must be familiar. This familiarization includes the equipment used, how this equipment functions, what parameters a sensor produces, and a knowledge of any algorithms used in the processing of the observational information. These sensors include the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS), automated systems other than ASOS (OTA), hydrologic network equipment, the cooperative observing network, and local mesonets.
1. Demonstrate a knowledge of how ASOS takes an observation and how these observations are integrated into routine analysis of the atmosphere.
2. Demonstrate a knowledge of how automated observing platforms other than ASOS take an observation and how these observations are integrated into routine analysis of the atmosphere.
3. Demonstrate a knowledge of how hydrologic network observations are taken and how these observations are integrated into routine analysis of the atmosphere.
4. Demonstrate a knowledge of how cooperative network observations are taken and how these observations are integrated into routine analysis of the atmosphere.
5. Demonstrate a knowledge of local mesonets.
Instructional Component 3.1: Web-based training module entitled ASOS and Human Observations Comparison on the NWSTC ASOS Web page.
Instructional Component 3.2: A series of ASOS algorithm tutorials is available on the NWSTC ASOS web page. These tutorials cover the elements of a typical observation: wind, sky cover, visibility, present weather, temperature, dewpoint temperature, and pressure.
Instructional Component 3.3: Complete a Web-based lesson on the supplemental observation process used by the National Weather Service. (To be developed)
Instructional Component 3.4: Complete a Web-based tutorial on automated systems other than ASOS. (To be developed)
Instructional Component 3.5: The "Operations of the NWS Hydrologic Services Program" is available in hard copy from NWS Regional Hydrologists or the Office of Hydrology. This document provides information on the hydrologic and cooperative networks and their operation.
Instructional Component 3.6: Complete the Web-based tutorial on observation standards, siting standards, and equipment standards, and how these standards impact the operational use of the observations produced. A Web-based module is available on the Standard Rain Gage that addresses standards and siting of the gage.
Instructional Component 3.7: Work with your local MIC, DAPM, LDAD Focal Point, and SOO to become familiar with the local mesoscale networks that exist in your area of responsibility.
Evaluation 3.1: At each office, the SOO will be assigned responsibility and provided with the tools for ensuring that surface data are appropriately utilized by forecasters. Instructional Components 3.1 through 3.5 include assessments and reviews as part of the training material. Completion of these individual evaluation segments will satisfy the evaluation component of this PCU.
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