NSSL scientists shadow NOAA Storm Prediction Center forecasters

NSSL scientists shadowed NOAA Storm Prediction Center (SPC) operational forecasters this spring to immerse themselves in the front-line operational and scientific challenges associated with forecasting hazardous convective weather.

The program enabled NSSL scientists to observe and interact with SPC forecasters at various forecast desks during a variety of operational forecasting scenarios. These scenarios ranged from quieter convective days when there was more opportunity for in-depth discussion, to more active severe weather days when direct interaction might be minimized but valuable insights could still be gained through observation of the operational decision-making processes.

Shadow shift participants examined SPC forecasting responsibilities, division of duties among various forecast desks and the SPC’s team-oriented forecasting strategy. They also studied forecaster preparation of specific SPC products, focusing on forecaster use of scientific knowledge, multiple datasets, and technological tools contributing to the generation and issuance of SPC forecasts.

The shadow shift program is just one reflection of a culture of collaboration that has existed for many years in the Norman meteorological community. This productive relationship between research and operations has been a key ingredient in improving severe weather forecasts and warnings. NSSL researchers will use knowledge gained from the shadow shift initiative to optimize the operational relevance of future research efforts.