Tropical Analysis and Forecast Branch
Panoramic Photo of TAFB Operations [larger] – [very large]
The Tropical Analysis and Forecast Branch (TAFB) (formerly known as
the Tropical Satellite Analysis and Forecast (TSAF) unit) is an
integral part of the National Hurricane and performs a number of functions.
TAFB products include: marine High Seas Forecasts
over the tropics and subtropics, Offshore Waters Forecasts over the
tropics and subtropics, Tropical Weather Discussions over the tropics
and subtropics, and surface weather analyses and forecasts over the
tropics, subtropics, and mid-latitudes. For further information about
TAFB and TAFB products not included in these web pages, contact
Christopher Burr,
Chief TAFB at 305-229-4430.
Many TAFB products are available over high seas radiofax on upper
side-band (USB). The TAFB radiofax product
transmission schedule and frequency list is transmitted daily at
0630 and 1830 UTC. Transmission is from the United States Coast Guard
located at New Orleans, LA.
The TAFB is also an integral part of the
National Hurricane Center (NHC). TAFB
provides support for NHC during the hurricane season. This includes
satellite-derived tropical cyclone position and intensity estimates,
WSR-88D radar fixes for tropical cyclones, tropical cyclone forecast
support, media support, and general operational support.
Unlike NHC which is fully staffed for operations during the hurricane
season, the TAFB is staffed and operated 24 hours a day 365 days per
year. TAFB has at least three meteorologists working at all times, and
usually has five meteorologists working during weekdays and during
tropical cyclone landfall events.
TAFB meteorologists are highly trained in marine meteorology, tropical
meteorology, satellite imagery interpretation, and tropical weather
analysis. TAFB products are generated every six hours (some are
updated more frequently as warning responsibility and
weather conditions dictate).
The TAFB consists of a branch chief, five lead forecasters, six
journeyman forecasters, four forecaster development
meteorologists, and two interns.
TAFB staff members are found on the
NHC Personnel page.
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