Joseph J. (Jay) Charney

Title: Research Meteorologist
Unit: Climate, Fire, and Carbon Cycle Sciences
Previous Unit: Atmospheric-Ecosystem Interactions
Address: Northern Research Station
Stephen S. Nisbet Bldg., 1407 S. Harrison Road, Room 220
East Lansing, MI 48823
Phone: 517-355-7740; ext. 105
E-mail: Contact Joseph J. (Jay) Charney

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Education

• The Pennsylvania State University, Ph.D. Meteorology, 1997
• University of Maryland, M.S. Meteorology, 1992
• The Pennsylvania State University, B.S. Physics, 1990

Civic & Professional Affiliations

Southern Michigan Prescribed Fire Council,International Association of Wildland Fire

Current Research

I am studying the atmospheric impacts on fire behavior, fire danger, and smoke dispersion. I employ atmospheric numerical weather prediction models to predict the weather conditions that could impact a fire.

Why is This Important

This research is working toward an improved understanding of fire-atmosphere interactions that will help produce the next generation of fire-weather and fire behavior products. These products are used by fire weather meteorologists, fire managers, and smoke managers to allow them to make more informed decisions that can save lives and property and can prevent illness and respiratory distress.

Future Research

I will continue to develop the science of fire-atmosphere interactions, focusing on the next generation of fire behavior models and weather prediction models. Models that explicitly resolve the combustion process, its impact on the atmosphere above the fire, and feedbacks on the fire itself are currently being developed. I will be working to validate and incorporate these models into fire operations. Additionally, as the next generation of numerical weather prediction models come into use, I will continue to develop fire weather products to take advantage of the more detailed information from these models. This information will enable fire weather forecasters and fire managers to continue to carry out prescribed burns and fight wildfires using state-of-the-science tools to aid in their decision-making.

Featured Publications

Additional Online Publications