About the HWT
During multiple experiments that take place in the HWT throughout the year, researchers and forecasters work side-by-side to evaluate emerging research concepts and tools in simulated operational settings, including experimental forecast and warning generation exercises. In practice, this effort gives forecasters direct access to the latest research developments while imparting scientists with the knowledge to formulate research strategies that will have practical benefits. This collaborative approach ensures an effective, two-way path between research and operations which ultimately improves NWS forecasts and warnings.
LEADERSHIP
The HWT Executive Officer (vacant) serves as the single point of contact for the HWT that coordinates with the HWT Board of Directors and Coordinators for the Experimental Forecast Program (EFP) and Experimental Warning Program (EWP).
The HWT Board of Directors is comprised of the Directors of the NWS Storm Prediction Center, NWS OUN (Norman, OK) Forecast Office, and NSSL. The EWP and EFP Coordinators are responsible for working with principal investigators and HWT Support Staff to determine project scheduling and technical requirements.
Facilities
The HWT provides a unique setting that encourages interaction between researchers and the people who most benefit from research – forecasters. The HWT facilities include a combined forecast and research area placed between the operations areas of the SPC and OUN, and the NSSL Development Lab located nearby. The development lab includes four wall-mounted plasma screen displays and enough space for at least 10 workstations. Researchers, forecasters and developers use the lab to evaluate new platforms and techniques in realtime as a team. Collaboration among these diverse groups provides valuable feedback that can immediately be applied to the research and development process, streamlining technology transfer.
Meeting NOAA and NWS strategic goals
NOAA’s mission is to serve society’s needs for weather and water information. NWS strategic goals aim to reduce the loss of life, injury, and damage to the U.S. economy. The NOAA HWT supports both of these goals by increasing the development, application, and transition of advanced science and technology to operations and services, and looking for ways to increase the lead-time and accuracy for weather and water warnings and forecasts, via two separate components: the Experimental Forecast Program, or EFP and the Experimental Warning Program, or EWP.