Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch

An application was added to the Hurricane Landfall Probability Applications (HuLPA) interface that uses Monte Carlo tropical cyclone wind speed probabilities to provide tropical storm and hurricane watch/warning guidance.  The application provides guidance on the timing and location of watches and warnings in the Atlantic, N.E. and Central Pacific basins.  In addition, further refinements are being made to the wind speed probability watch/warning algorithm through collaboration with Hurricane Specialists at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, FL. (A. Schumacher, M. DeMaria, R. DeMaria)

Figure.  Example of HuLPA watch/warning guidance application graphical (left) and text (right) outputs for Hurricane Beatriz on 21 June 2011 at 0Z.

After a year-long delay due to an operational systems freeze at NESDIS, efforts to transition the Global Tropical Cyclone Formation Probability (TCFP) product to an operational product have resumed.  During the freeze, the TCFP has been running in real time at CIRA.  The product code is currently under review.  Once the review is complete, the product will be installed on a development system for testing. (A. Schumacher, M. DeMaria, J. Knaff)

The software running the ingest of the GFS model, which is used for a various tropical cyclone research products, was updated to include the relative humidity field now available to 100 mb (previously 300 mb), as well as to ingest GFS forecast fields out to 174 hours for the entire global domain. (J. Dostalek)
The effect of large-scale vertical motion on tropical cyclogenesis in the Atlantic is being investigated using an omega equation valid for the whole sphere.  Two types of genesis are considered: one in which the cyclone forms from tropical (i.e. low baroclinicity) forcing, and a second in which the cyclone forms in a baroclinically influenced environment.  The first category consists primarily of low-latitude easterly waves, and the second of higher latitude forcings.  Composites of easterly waves which developed into tropical cyclones (Fig. 1a) and composites of easterly waves which dissipated (Fig. 1b) do show differences in omega, as well as in the shape of the wave.  The composite of the developing systems shows greater vertical motion and a more asymmetric 700-mb shape than the composite of the dissipating systems.  For higher latitude disturbances the developing systems tend to be associated with a weaker positive/negative omega couplet straddling a relatively stationary upper-level trough (Fig 2a,b), whereas the dissipating systems tend to be associated with a strong, but progressive wave (Fig 2c,d)  which acquires a more negative tilt between 24 and 6 hours before dissipation.  These results agree with the observed tendencies of disturbances to develop or dissipate at tropical and subtropical latitudes. (J. Dostalek)

Fig.1.  Composite 700-mb streamfunction (x10-7 m2s-1) and 700-200 mb average omega (Pas-1) for a) low-latitude developing disturbances, and b) low-latitude dissipating disturbances.  Times are for 12 hours before development or dissipation.  The red cross marks the composite disturbance center.

Fig.2.  Composite 500-mb streamfunction (x10-7 m2s-1) and 700-200 mb average omega (Pas-1) for a) higher-latitude developing disturbances 24 hours before development, b) 6 hours before development, b) higher-latitude dissipating disturbances 24 hours before dissipation, c) 6 hours before dissipation The red cross marks the composite disturbance center.

The status of the GOES PSDI project to transition the multi-platform tropical cyclone surface wind analysis (MTCSWA) to operations at NSOF was discussed with M. Seybold (IPB) , L. Ma (IPB) and M. Turk (SAB).  A number of topics were discussed including documentation requirements, annual verification requirements, NCDC archive agreement status, web page updates and potential data sources.   The promotion of MTCSWA to operational status has been proposed, but is currently battling limited resources since the recent lifting of the operational freeze imposed at ESPC. PSDI transitions are currently the 31st priority out of 43 items at ESPC.   Paperwork for this proposal has been prepared and will be submitted shortly.  We will continue to try to elicit a response from NCDC about the archive agreement.  Work on transitioning will begin in September. (J. Knaff)

Two techniques developed at CIRA/RAMMB have been used in a new tropical cyclone forecaster’s dialog.   The first is the estimate of central pressure using the pressure wind relationships discussed in Knaff & Zehr (2007) and methods discussed in Courtney and Knaff (2009).  This new capability provides a central pressure given a maximum wind estimate, a motion estimate, the pressure of the outer closed isobar, the gale force wind radii and the latitude – all routinely available in operations.   The second technique uses a simple diagnostic based on Holland (1980) and described in Knaff et al. (2011) to provide guidance as to whether the TC structure estimates are consistent with the observed TC structure (e.g.  is this storm a large tropical cyclone?).  Routines were implemented as part of annual update of the Automated Tropical Cyclone Forecast (ATCF) system by C. Sampson (NRLMRY).  The ATCF is used at NHC, CPHC and JTWC to produce tropical cyclone warnings and forecasts. (J. Knaff)

New AMSU limb correction coefficients for NOAA-19 were made due to noise in channel 8 of the NOAA-19’s AMSU-A instrument.  New limb correction coefficients that do not use channel 8 were provided by K. Zhang, M. Goldberg and C. Barnet (StAR).  These new coefficients were passed on to A. Krautkramer (NHC) who is coordinating the operational transition of AMSU TC intensity and structure fix updates at NCEP. (J. Knaff)

Sounder-based Airmass products developed last quarter were prepared for the upcoming GOES-R Proving Ground Demonstration.    These preparations included data ingest, archive and dissemination. This product is now on the web http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/ramsdis/online/loop_timestamp.asp?data_folder=goes-r_proving_ground/sounder_airmass&width=1240&height=700 and is being distributed via ftp and LDM to SPoRT.  We are also archiving the inputs to the product as well as the SPoRT generated products (NAWIPS version) for the duration of the demonstrations at HPC, OPC and NHC. (J. Knaff, K. Micke, H. Gosden)

J. Knaff attended the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Project (HFIP) Observation workshop in Miami and presented two talks entitled “Satellite Observations of Tropical Cyclones: Currently and Soon Available” and “An Overview of Observational Needs of the HFIP Applications Development and Diagnostics (ADD) Team.” (J. Knaff)

Multi-platform Tropical Cyclone Surface Wind Analysis (MTCSWA) data (10 hurricanes) were shared with R. Kovordanyi (Linköping University, Sweeden) who is a professor in the Department of Computer and Information Science and is interested in using the data for research in disaster management.  (J. Knaff)

Collaboration with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) continues with developing Monte Carlo-based tropical cyclone wind probabilities forecasts (MCWP) for the Australian region.  Following a visit in late January, BoM have been able to implement the software that creates MCWP and that verifies the output using historical cases.  A preliminary test case that included Hurricane Ida (2009) was successfully run and verified forecasts were compared to the same forecasts made at NCEP.  Following this success, another test case was provided to the BoM software transition team for testing that includes multiple storms in multiple basins. (J. Knaff)

The AMSU temperature retrieval code was shared with JMA.The Japanese Meteorological Agency currently uses AMSU-A temperature retrievals from two operational satellites to monitor developing tropical cyclones using methods developed by K. Bessho, who was a CIRA visitor in 2005-2006.  To enable the development of similar capabilities using all of the available AMSU instruments, temperature retrieval software was provided to S. Hoshino (MRI-JMA) who has the task of updating the current AMSU-based methods. (J. Knaff)

Forecasts/hindcasts made by the ENSO CLIPER model (Knaff and Landsea 1997) were provided to T. Barnston (IRI; International Research Institute for Climate and Society, Columbia Univ.) who produces a monthly ENSO forecast plume.  IRI plans to start a second ENSO forecast plume that uses the forecasts along with their past performance. (J. Knaff)

J. Knaff, M. DeMaria, K. Musgrave, B. McNoldy, K. Apodaca, and M. Zhang attended the biannual NCAR/NOAA/CIRA mini Tropical Cyclone (TC) workshop in Boulder on 1 April.  The workshop offers a small-audience and informal environment for discussing current TC research.  (J. Knaff)

A presentation discussing the satellite-based differences between Tropical Cyclone Larry (2006) and Tropical Cyclone Yasi (2011), both which made landfall in Queensland, Australia between Cairns and Townsville, was provided to J. Davidson (BoM).   This information will be considered in the official Tropical Cyclone Report on TC Yasi, which is currently being prepared. (J. Knaff)

A test ASCII file of snow data from the National Ice Center has been downloaded.  This file will be used to see if it is of higher resolution to compare with the test snow data sets from MSG data. An outline of a paper on the Regional climatologies was put together, including a section on the GOES-R snow work in future developments section. (C. Combs)

New hire, Matt Rodgers, who is replacing Duli Chand on the Renewable Energy project, has been updated on the status of the project and discussed details.  Matt, Steve Miller and Cindy Combs have discussed the classification of solar regimes.  A new plan to implement the PC Analysis in this task has been developed. (C. Combs)

Assistance to Andrew Jones in writing a Letter of Intent to GIMPAP entitled GOES Satellite Cloud Verification for Operational NWP Systems has been provided. (C. Combs)

It was discovered this quarter that Regional Cloud Climatology DVDs that were supposed to contain quality controlled data for the fall of 1999 are blank, most likely due to errors during the transfer from exabyte tape.  A procedure to replace these missing months has been developed, which includes retrieving the data from the CIRA main archive and using previous notes to aid in quality control. (C. Combs)

Collaborative work on the tropospheric responses to temperature anomalies in the Gulf Stream continued with Dudley Chelton of CIOSS.  This quarter’s work focused on using the COAMPS (Coupled Ocean/Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System) model as a framework to compare values from the linear balance theory (vorticity, divergence, omega) developed at CSU to the primitive equation values.  The results, presented by Dr. Chelton at the International Ocean Vector Winds Meeting in Annapolis, MD, suggest that the addition of friction and diabatic heating may improve the quality of the linear balance approximations.  Work has thus begun on incorporating a simple measure of these two effects into the linear balance theory. (J. Dostalek)

As part of the GOES-R Risk Reduction program, a tropopause wind product is being developed.  Combining measurements from radiosondes, COSMIC, GOES, and OMI, the nondivergent wind field can be estimated at the tropopause (i.e. jet-stream level).  The basis of the technique is the relationship between lower-stratospheric ozone and the vorticity at the tropopause derived by Vaughn and Price (1991).  The date of the case being studied needed to be changed due to problems related to row anomalies in the OMI data.  The new date is 12Z 6 Jan 2007, for which a strong upper-level jet existed over the eastern United States.  Except for the GOES sounder total ozone, all the necessary data have been acquired.  Contact with CIMSS has been made to get the necessary files and programs to calculate the total ozone. (J. Dostalek)

Reference:  Vaughn, G. and J. D. Price, 1991: On the relation between total ozone and meteorology.  Quart. J. Roy. Meteor. Soc.,117,1281-1298.  

Work continues on the GOES Hail Probability Product.  It is running experimentally and being delivered to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) for evaluation.  Below is an example of the product’s output as it appears in the SPC’s N-AWIPS system.  At the end of the 2011 severe weather season, validation statistics will be computed.  (D. Lindsey)

Figure.  GOES hail probability product as it appears in the SPC’s N-AWIPS system from 10 May 2011 valid 21-00 UTC.  The units are probability of severe hail (%) in that 3-hour period within 25 km of a point.  The small ‘a’ symbols represent the severe hail observations.

A variation of the GOES Hail Probability Product is now being produced that issues probability forecasts for “Significant Hail,” or hail greater than or equal to 2″ in diameter.  This was based on a request from the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) because they must issue Significant Hail forecasts as part of their Convective Outlooks multiple times each day.  These experimental products will be evaluated as part of the 2011 Spring Experiment at the SPC.  Below is an example of the products, along with the observed hail reports, from 20 April 2011 at 23 UTC.  The real-time output can be found here: http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/products/hail_probability/index.asp (D. Lindsey)

Figure.  GOES Hail Probability (%) forecast for >=1″(left) and >=2″ (right) diameter hail between 23 UTC on 20 April 2011 and 02 UTC on 21 April 2011, along with the observed hail reports during that time.

The Arizona “Wallow” fire, now the second largest in recorded Arizona history (as of 8 June 2011) has been followed in the daily satellite/weather discussions at CIRA ever since it began on 30 May 2011.  Animated loops of the visible albedo imagery for the early morning hours have been saved for selected days, to show the density and extent of the smoke from the fire.  See Figure 1 for an example.  Media news reports have noted that the smoke reached “as far as Iowa,” and that it covered “6 states.”  However, the early morning enhanced visible imagery, which benefits from forward scattering of sunlight into the GOES-West view, shows that the smoke currently extends from Arizona into Texas to the east and into Wisconsin and Michigan to the northeast, covering parts of 10 states, many more than 6 states noted by the media.  (D. Hillger)

Figure 1: Animated loop of the smoke from the Arizona “Wallow” fire on 8 June 2011.  Note the smoke plume extending from Arizona into Texas to the east and into Wisconsin and Michigan to the northeast, and covering parts of 10 states.

As part of the GOES-R Proving Ground, simulated imagery from NSSL’s 4-km WRF-ARW is being generated and sent to NWS every morning.  The Area Forecast Discussion from the Boulder, CO, office on the morning of 7 April said “SYNTHETIC SATELLITE IMAGERY FROM THE WRF MODEL SHOWS A PERIOD OF AFTERNOON CONVECTION DEVELOPING OVER NORTHEAST COLORADO THISAFTERNOON….WILL MENTION SCATTERED SHOWERS AND ISOLATED THUNDER ACROSS THE PLAINS THIS AFTERNOON.”  The figure below shows that convection did indeed develop, illustrating that the simulated imagery assisted in their operational forecast.  (D. Lindsey, L. Grasso, H. Gosden, D. Molenar)

Figure.  Simulated 10.35 µm band from the 23-hour forecast of the 7 April 2011 WRF-ARW from NSSL (left), and the observed GOES 10.7 µm valid at the same time (23 UTC).  Thunderstorms can be seen in both the forecast and the observed imagery in eastern Colorado.

A proposal was accepted for funding by the GOES-R Risk Reduction program entitled “Convective Storm Forecasting 1-6 Hours Prior to Initiation,” and work has begun.  One of the first tasks is to work with NSSL to re-run a WRF simulation from 21 May 2011 and to save the model output every 5 minutes so that ABI data can be simulated.  (D. Lindsey, L. Grasso)

Additional processing has been added to the real-time MODIS imagery being displayed at CIRA. The algorithm for generating the ABI Green band is applied to MODIS imagery and compared to the observed Green band from MODIS.  The first example is seen in Figure 1.  Differences between the RGB images with actual and synthetic Green bands are not that obvious until Green band difference images are also created.  In the 4-panel image, the absolute differences between the observed and synthetic Green bands are shown in blue when Green is underestimated, and are shown in red when the Green band is overestimated.  Relative (or normalized) differences are also shown, with increasing differences in red.  Absolute differences are on the order of 5% over most of the image.  (D. Hillger)

Figure 1: Real-time GOES-R ABI RGB images and Green band differences created on the fly using MODIS proxy data.

McIDAS-V has the capability to output imagery into KMZ files readable by Google Earth.  In Figure 1 is an example true-color/RGB image created from simulated ABI data provided by CIMSS.  The generation of the Green band for ABI, and the color enhancements (Rayleigh-correction and log-enhancement) to the Red, Green, and Blue images were accomplished at CIRA.  (D. Hillger)

Figure 1.  Simulated ABI true-color image in Google Earth projection after using McIDAS-V to map the data into a rectilinear projection and output the image as a KMZ file.

Collaboration continues with Shobha Kondragunta (NOAA/NESDIS Center for Satellite Applications and Research). We met with Shobha, Pubo Ciren, and Brad Pierce at the AWG review that was held in Fort Collins to discuss our collaboration. In May, Amy Huff visit to overview work with Shobha. (L. Grasso, D. Hillger, and R. Brummer)

Collaboration continues with Yi Jin at the Naval Research Laboratory in Monterey, California. She sent additional COAMPS output of a simulation of hurricane Igor. Synthetic GOES-13 imagery at 6.48 and 10.7 µm is pending while our new cluster is tested (L. Grasso)

Collaboration continues with the Storm Prediction Center. We continue to make real time GOES-R imagery. This imagery is made from the NSSL 4km WRF-ARW real time runs. We have been making such imagery continuously at CIRA since May 2010. In addition to 6.95 and 10.35 µm, 7.34, 8.5, and 12.3 µm have been included. Further, three channel difference have been produced and they are 8.5-10.35, 8.5-12.3, and 10.35-12.3. All output can be viewed at the CIRA Proving Ground website. This quarter, we began producing synthetic GOES-13 6.48 and 10.7 micron imagery from the real time runs. This data will be compared to observed GOES-13 imagery. The figure below is an example of one of the channel differences (10.35-12.3).  It shows a local maximum forming over central Texas, followed by cloud formation there.  This illustrates how low-level water vapor convergence can be inferred from the GOES-R band differences, and convective cloud formation can be anticipated before it actually occurs.  (L. Grasso, D. Lindsey, Bob Rabin (NSSL/CIMSS), Scott Dembeck (NASA), Jack Kain (NSSL), Chris Siewert (SPC))

Figure: Synthetic 10.35-12.3 µm GOES-R ABI difference image valid at 17-19 UTC on 20 April 2011 based on a 17-19-hour forecast from SPC’s 4-km WRF-ARW simulation.

A new collaboration was developed with Shaima Naisiri who is at Texas A&M. This collaboration will focus on understanding channel differencing of optically thick thunderstorm anvils. (L. Grasso, D. Lindsey)

Work began on learning to run the CRTM version 2.0.2. We have had a difficult time, at best, to find outside help in using this model. Yoo-Jeong Noh has joined our group and will be working with this model. (L. Grasso, Y.J. Noh, R. Brummer)

D. Lindsey traveled to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) in Norman, OK, for the annual GOES-R Proving Ground Spring Experiment in May 2011.  RAMMB and CIRA are providing two products for evaluation: the GOES hail probability product, and simulated GOES-R ABI data from the NSSL WRF-ARW model.  Useful feedback was collected on both products.   (D. Lindsey)  

A. VISIT

Training metrics for the quarter:

•  Teletraining:

15 VISIT teletraining sessions have been delivered.  There were 28 teletraining signups, 107 students participated.

• Learning Management System (LMS) audio / video playback modules:

Registrations:  183
Completions:  122

LMS totals from January 2005 through June 28, 2011:
Registrations:  4685
Completions: 2901

Definitions used in LMS metrics:
Registrations:  The number of students who either clicked on the course, or actually took the course, but did not complete the quiz or achieve a passing grade upon taking the quiz.  A student may have registered for multiple courses.
Completions:  The number of students that achieved a passing grade on a quiz for a course.  A student may have completed multiple courses this way.

Ongoing development of new VISIT training sessions:

• The Analysis and Forecast of Severe Weather Associated with the Dryline (Jeff Braun).
• GIMPAP sponsored winter weather research (Henry’s Rule), see note below under research. 

Research:

• J. Braun and D. Bikos are collaborating with J. Dostalek in ongoing research regarding analysis of satellite imagery in relation to “Henry’s Rule” for winter storms.  J. Braun is currently working on a paper to be submitted to the National Weather Association (NWA) that will compare and contrast and update the idea of the original paper introduced some 30 years ago.
• Discussion continues on “Quantitative Northeast Pacific Cyclone Analysis…” as well as “COSMIC/Ozone Data Analysis.” Both topics are being developed for future paper/VISIT session consideration.

Collaboration:

J. Braun and D. Bikos will be collaborating with many different training offices (including COMET) and local, regional and national operational offices of the National Weather Service. 

VISIT Meteorological Interpretation Blog – (http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/visit/blog/) – (J. Braun) Continue to build and administer the VISIT Blog – a web-log program intended to initiate increased communication between the operational, academic, and training worlds.  The blog averages about 300 views per week.

The following table shows a breakdown of the metrics for each VISIT teletraining session valid April 1999 – June 28, 2011.  The participant count is collected after each teletraining session, the student is mailed a certificate of completion if they reply to an evaluation email with names.  For a complete list and description of each VISIT session see this web-page.

Meetings and Calls

D. Bikos participated in the Spring Experiment at the NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed at the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, OK on May 16-18.  Participants looked at numerous experimental products in forecasting severe weather.  This includes various GOES-R proving ground products such as the synthetic imagery from the NSSL 4-km WRF-ARW model produced at CIRA.

J. Braun and D. Bikos both attended Internal GOES-R Proving Groundmeetings on both April 7, 2011 and June 22, 2011 to discuss the preparation for the Annual Proving Ground Meeting at COMET the week of May 16, 2011in addition to CIRA/RAMMB PG milestones for NHC, SPC, OPC, HPC, Pacific and High Latitude Regions, Regional Centers and WFOs.

B. Connell attended the NOAA Satellite Direct Readout Conference in Miami April 4-8.  She gave two presentations on “CIRA Proving Ground Activities” and “Satellite Training Activities: VISIT, SHyMet, and WMO VLab Focus Group” and also presented a poster for viewing “WMO CGMS VLab:  What is it?  Lessons over 15 years and opportunities for the future”  This provided ample opportunity to interact with the international community on training related activities.

VISIT/SHyMet had conference calls on April 25 and June 27.

B. Connell attended the GOES-R Proving Ground Annual meeting/workshop held at COMET in Boulder, CO 17-19 May.  She led the Training/User Readiness Breakout Session on the 3rd morning.

D. Bikos attended the training wrap-up meeting at COMET in Boulder, CO on May 20.  The Breakout Group Actions from the Proving Ground were reviewed, discussed, and prioritized. 

A member of the VISIT/SHyMet team from CIRA participated in the NWS Satellite Operations and Applications Working Group (SOAWG – formerly SRSST) quarterly teleconference meeting as a subject matter expert.

A member of the VISIT/SHyMet team from CIRA participates in the COMET monthly satellite call to keep informed of training efforts there.

Other

Started administering new “comment” database (June 2011) for all GOES-R proving ground real-time products.

J. Braun coordinated and arranged with the USDA US Forest Service for a special presentation from Piers Corbyn (UK) to be delivered on the Atmospheric Campus (June 29, 2011) titled: “What Drives Weather and Climate and Triggers Earthquakes and Volcanoes?” (D. Bikos and J. Braun)

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm Forecasting.
Consists of 7 core courses and 4 optional courses: http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/severe_topics.asp

Core courses:

• Mesoscale Analysis of Convective Weather Using RSO Imagery.
• Use of GOES RSO Imagery with other Remote Sensor Data for Diagnosing Severe Weather across the CONUS.
• GOES Imagery for Forecasting and Nowcasting Severe Weather.
• Water Vapor Imagery Analysis for Severe Weather Forecasting.
• Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Severe Weather.
• Predicting Supercell Motion in Operations.
• Objective Satellite-Based Overshooting Top and Enhanced-V Anvil Thermal Couplet Signature Detection.

Optional courses:

• Monitoring Gulf Moisture Return.
• The UW Convective Initiation Product.
• Coastal Severe Convective Weather.
• Topographically Induced Convergence Zones and Severe Convective Weather.

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

5  NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April  – June 2011) for the SHyMet Severe Development Plan.  (36 total for March 2011 through June 29, 2011)  2 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  2 having completed since its inception.

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm individual class/session breakdown through March 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 95 registered for individual SHyMet Severe modules for this quarter
• 68 completed individual SHyMet Severe modules for this quarter
• 137 total registrations for individual SHyMet Severe modules (for the period March 3, 2011 – June 29, 2011)

Tropical SHyMet training course.  Began August 2010.
Consists of 7 courses:  http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/tropical_intro.asp

• Basic Satellite Interpretation in the Tropics.
• Ensemble Tropical Rainfall Potential (eTRaP)
• An Overview of Tropical Cyclone Track Guidance Models used by NHC
• An Overview of Tropical Cyclone Intensity Guidance Models used by NHC
• Satellite Applications for Tropical Cyclones : Dvorak Technique
• ASCAT Winds
• AWIPS OB9 Blended TPW Products

SHyMet Tropical Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

0  NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April – June 2011) for the SHyMet Tropical Development Plan (13 total for August 2010 through June 29, 2011)  0 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  4 having completed since its inception.

SHyMet Tropical – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Tropical individual class/session breakdown through Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 19 registered for individual SHyMet Tropical modules for this quarter
• 17 completed SHyMet Tropical modules for this quarter
• 284 total registrations for individual SHyMet Tropical modules (for the period August 2010 – June 29, 2011)

SHyMet For Forecasters training course:  released January 2010.  It consists of 6 core courses and 3 optional courses.
http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/forecaster_intro.asp :

This Development Plan includes:

1. Introduction to remote sensing for hydrology (NWS FDTB)
2. Interpreting Satellite Signatures (CIMSS)
3. Satellite Applications for Tropical Cyclones: Dvorak Technique (RAMMB/CIRA)
4. Aviation Hazards (CIRA)
5. Water vapor channels (CIMSS)
6. GOES-R 101 (CIRA)

Optional modules

7. Regional Satellite Cloud Composites from GOES (CIRA)
8. Volcanic Ash Hazards (Part 1)  (CIRA)
9. Volcanic Ash Hazards (Part 2) (CIRA)

SHyMet For Forecasters Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

1 NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April – June 2011) for the SHyMet Forecasters Course Development Plan (32 total for January 2010 through June 29, 2011) 0 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  13 having completed since its inception.

3 Non-NOAA participants (International) have registered here at CIRA for the SHyMet Forecasters Course between January 2010 – June 29, 2011, including 0 this quarter.  There were no completions this quarter.

SHyMet For Forecasters – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Forecasters individual class/session breakdown through Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 70 registered for individual SHyMet Forecaster modules this quarter
• 44 completed SHyMet Forecaster modules this quarter
• 401 total registrations for individual SHyMet Forecaster modules (for the period January 2010 – June 29, 2011)

SHyMet Intern course (Development Plan)
The SHyMet Intern course continues to be offered online.  It consists of 9 modules
(http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/intern_intro.asp ). 

SHyMet Intern Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

9  NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April  – June 2011) for the SHyMet Intern Course – 281 total for April 2006 through June 29, 2011.  8 Participants completed the course this quarter for a total of 134 registered completions.

1 Non-NOAA participants (International) have registered here at CIRA this quarter for the SHyMet Intern Course. (34 total for April 2006 – June 29, 2011)  There were no completions this quarter.

SHyMet Intern – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:
Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Intern individual class/session breakdown through
Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 162 registered for individual SHyMet Intern  modules for this quarter
• 132 completed SHyMet Intern modules this quarter
• 3875 total registrations for individual SHyMet modules (for the period April 2006 – June 29, 2011)

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm Forecasting.
Consists of 7 core courses and 4 optional courses: http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/severe_topics.asp

Core courses:

• Mesoscale Analysis of Convective Weather Using RSO Imagery.
• Use of GOES RSO Imagery with other Remote Sensor Data for Diagnosing Severe Weather across the CONUS.
• GOES Imagery for Forecasting and Nowcasting Severe Weather.
• Water Vapor Imagery Analysis for Severe Weather Forecasting.
• Synthetic Imagery in Forecasting Severe Weather.
• Predicting Supercell Motion in Operations.
• Objective Satellite-Based Overshooting Top and Enhanced-V Anvil Thermal Couplet Signature Detection.

Optional courses:

• Monitoring Gulf Moisture Return.
• The UW Convective Initiation Product.
• Coastal Severe Convective Weather.
• Topographically Induced Convergence Zones and Severe Convective Weather.

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

5  NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April  – June 2011) for the SHyMet Severe Development Plan.  (36 total for March 2011 through June 29, 2011)  2 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  2 having completed since its inception.

SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Severe Thunderstorm individual class/session breakdown through March 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 95 registered for individual SHyMet Severe modules for this quarter
• 68 completed individual SHyMet Severe modules for this quarter
• 137 total registrations for individual SHyMet Severe modules (for the period March 3, 2011 – June 29, 2011)

Tropical SHyMet training course.  Began August 2010.
Consists of 7 courses:  http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/tropical_intro.asp

• Basic Satellite Interpretation in the Tropics.
• Ensemble Tropical Rainfall Potential (eTRaP)
• An Overview of Tropical Cyclone Track Guidance Models used by NHC
• An Overview of Tropical Cyclone Intensity Guidance Models used by NHC
• Satellite Applications for Tropical Cyclones : Dvorak Technique
• ASCAT Winds
• AWIPS OB9 Blended TPW Products

SHyMet Tropical Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April – June 2011) for the SHyMet Tropical Development Plan (13 total for August 2010 through June 29, 2011)  0 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  4 having completed since its inception.

SHyMet Tropical – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Tropical individual class/session breakdown through Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 19 registered for individual SHyMet Tropical modules for this quarter
• 17 completed SHyMet Tropical modules for this quarter
• 284 total registrations for individual SHyMet Tropical modules (for the period August 2010 – June 29, 2011)

SHyMet For Forecasters training course:  released January 2010.  It consists of 6 core courses and 3 optional courses.
http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/forecaster_intro.asp :

This Development Plan includes:

10. Introduction to remote sensing for hydrology (NWS FDTB)
11. Interpreting Satellite Signatures (CIMSS)
12. Satellite Applications for Tropical Cyclones: Dvorak Technique (RAMMB/CIRA)
13. Aviation Hazards (CIRA)
14. Water vapor channels (CIMSS)
15. GOES-R 101 (CIRA)

Optional modules

16. Regional Satellite Cloud Composites from GOES (CIRA)
17. Volcanic Ash Hazards (Part 1)  (CIRA)
18. Volcanic Ash Hazards (Part 2) (CIRA)

SHyMet For Forecasters Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

1 NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April – June 2011) for the SHyMet Forecasters Course Development Plan (32 total for January 2010 through June 29, 2011) 0 Participants have completed the course this quarter, with  13 having completed since its inception.

3 Non-NOAA participants (International) have registered here at CIRA for the SHyMet Forecasters Course between January 2010 – June 29, 2011, including 0 this quarter.  There were no completions this quarter.

SHyMet For Forecasters – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:

Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Forecasters individual class/session breakdown through Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 70 registered for individual SHyMet Forecaster modules this quarter
• 44 completed SHyMet Forecaster modules this quarter
• 401 total registrations for individual SHyMet Forecaster modules (for the period January 2010 – June 29, 2011)

SHyMet Intern course (Development Plan)
The SHyMet Intern course continues to be offered online.  It consists of 9 modules
(http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/shymet/intern_intro.asp ). 

SHyMet Intern Metrics: CIRA/VISIT Registered:

9  NOAA/NWS employees/participants have registered here at CIRA this quarter (April  – June 2011) for the SHyMet Intern Course – 281 total for April 2006 through June 29, 2011.  8 Participants completed the course this quarter for a total of 134 registered completions.

1 Non-NOAA participants (International) have registered here at CIRA this quarter for the SHyMet Intern Course. (34 total for April 2006 – June 29, 2011)  There were no completions this quarter.

SHyMet Intern – NOAA-Learning Management System (LMS) Registered:
Overall NOAA LMS – SHyMet Intern individual class/session breakdown through
Mar. 30, 2011 (for “online” training only).

• 162 registered for individual SHyMet Intern  modules for this quarter
• 132 completed SHyMet Intern modules this quarter
• 3875 total registrations for individual SHyMet modules (for the period April 2006 – June 29, 2011)

ALL SHYMET: Total Registered through LMS since inception: 4607

                            Total Completed in LMS Since Inception: 3103

Future

Progress on new SHyMet for Hydrologists training course:
As of the December 13 meeting, the SHyMet team out of Boulder has taken the lead in developing the content of the course.  For content development, we will assist when requested.  When the content has been developed, we will assist with the logistics of adding materials to the web and the LMS

New directions for SHyMet:
In light of the recent developments for SHyMet for Hydrologists, we will refocus efforts to look at training with a focus on Aviation Weather Hazards.  (B Connell, D. Bikos, and J. Braun)

Monthly International Weather Briefings
The WMO Virtual Laboratory Regional Focus Group of the Americas and Caribbean conducted 2 monthly English and Spanish weather briefings (for April and June 2011) through VISITview using GOES and POES satellite Imagery from CIRA (http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/rmtc/focusgroup.asp .   May was a busy travel month for the organizers, so it was used to prepare for the switch in voice over the Internet from Yahoo Messenger to GoToWebinar.  There were participants from the U.S.: CIRA, NWS Training Division, the International Desk at NCEP, Territory of Puerto Rico, as well as outside the U.S.: Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Great Britain, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Panamá, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, and Venezuela.  The participants include researchers and students as well as forecasters.  The discussions were well attended with a peak of 21 computer connections and multiple participants at various sites.  We had a few test sessions prior to the June session to allow participants to check their voice connections.  The switch to GotoWebinar went smoothly: everyone that joined in was able to hear clearly and stay connected.   During the second session, one participant from the Dominican Republic was joining in from a Climate workshop in Africa, and another participant from Uruguay was joining in from Isla del Rey in Antarctica.  Kathy-Ann Caesar from CIMH in Barbados provided an overview of weather in the Caribbean and Daniel Vila from CPTEC in Brazil gave a brief summary from and of the field experiment occurring at the mouth of the Amazon.  M. Davison at NCEP International Desk was not able to join in the June session as he was recuperating from a recent auto accident.  We wish him a speedy recovery!    

Figure:  Screen grab during the June 2011 session showing the VISITview image and status windows and part of the control window for GoToWebinar.  The total precipitable water imagery was used to help locate tropical waves and also show the location of the field experiment over the Amazon region in Brazil.

During the last three months, Barbados has also been conducting monthly briefings for the Eastern Caribbean to introduce forecasters in training to the operational forecasters from the region.  CIRA has been assisting with the logistics of the sessions and providing imagery through the rammb server listed above.

Sharing of Imagery and Products
Imagery for Central and South America and the Caribbean can now be viewed at one location through RAMSDIS Online – look for the 2-week archive feature:  (http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/ramsdis/online/rmtc.asp). 
Look for information on our activities on the Regional Training Center web page. http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/training/rmtc/  (B. Connell, D. Coleman, D. Watson, K. Micke)

Training material on the Multi-platform Tropical Cyclone Surface Wind Analysis (MTCSWA) was provided to the organizers of the WMO International Workshop on Satellite Analysis of Tropical Cyclones.  A. Burton (BoM) will present the material. (J. Knaff)

Training material on the pressure-wind relationships developed at CIRA/RAMMB and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology was provided to the organizers of the WMO International Workshop on Satellite Analysis of Tropical Cyclones. (J. Knaff)

All of RAMMB participated in the GOES-R Algorithm Working Meeting that was held at the Hilton Hotel in Fort Collins, CO, on June 14-16th. RAMMB and several CIRA staff members also provided administrative, logistical and technical support for the meeting. (M. DeMaria)

An addition has been made to the calibration/validation section of the RAMMB Web, to feature the Imagery/Visualization work that is being done with the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI).  The new section includes a nice synthetic-RGB image created from simulated ABI data provided by CIMSS.  See http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/research/calibration_and_validation/ (D. Hillger)

A JPSS Algorithm and Data Products (ADP) Face-to-Face Application Leads Meeting was held in College Park MD on 28-29 April 2011.  The meeting engendered considerable discussion of the entire JPSS program, the roles and responsibilities of the team leads, our interactions with the corresponding cal/val leads for each team, as well as the rules of engagement for interactions with Northrop Grumman.  FY11 budget numbers were revealed to individual team leads, but those numbers are yet to be approved by STAR leadership.  Because of reduced budgets, an assessment of risks and priorities is expected from each team before proceeding with any work.  (D. Hillger)

To Accepted and Submitted Publications        To Awards and Citations        To Presentations and Posters

Published: 

• Refereed

Grasso, L.D., D.T. Lindsey, 2011: An Example of the use of Synthetic 3.9 µm GOES-12 Imagery for Two-Moment Microphysical Evaluation.  International Journal of Remote Sensing.  32:8, 2337.

Hillger, D.W., L.D. Grasso, S. Miller, R. Brummer, and R. DeMaria, 2011: Synthetic advanced baseline imager true-color imagery.  J. Appl. Remote Sens. (JARS) 5, 053520 (2011), DOI:10.1117/1.3576112.

Hillger, D.W., and S.D. Miller, 2011: GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document (ATBD) For Natural (aka True) Color Imagery Product (NCIP), NOAA/NESDIS/STAR, (April), 28 pp.

Lindsey, D.T., B. McNoldy, Z. Finch, D. Henderson, D. Lerach, R. Seigel, J. Steinweg-Woods, E. Stuckmeyer, G. Williams, D. Van Cleave, and M. Woloszyn, 2011:  A High Wind Statistical Prediction Model for the Northern Front Range of Colorado. Electronic Journal of Operational Meteorology, 2011-EJ03.

Quiring, S., A. Schumacher, C. Labosier, and L. Zhu, 2011:  Variations in mean annual tropical cyclone size in the Atlantic. J. Geophys. Res., 116, D09114, doi:10.1029/2010JD015011.

• Nonrefereed

Apodaca, K., M. Zupanski, J.A. Knaff, and L.D. Grasso, 2011: Assimilation of MSG-SEVIRI cloudy radiances into MLEF-HWRF as a GOES-R ABI proxy. JCSDA 9th Workshop on Satellite Data Assimilation, 24-25 May, College Park, Maryland.

Accepted:

• Refereed 

Goni, G.J., J.A. Knaff, and I-I Lin, 2011: TC heat potential (TCHP) [in “State of the Climate in 2010”]. Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc.

Jankov I., L.D. Grasso, M. Sengupta, P.J. Neiman, D. Zupanski, M. Zupanski, D.T. Lindsey, and R.L. Brummer, 2011: An Evaluation of Five WRF-ARW Microphysics Schemes Using Synthetic GOES Imagery for an Atmospheric River Event Affecting the California Coast. Journal of Hydrometeorology. In Press.

Knaff, J.A., M. DeMaria, D.A. Molenar, C.R. Sampson and M.G. Seybold, 2011:  An automated, objective, multi-satellite platform tropical cyclone surface wind analysis. J. of Applied Meteorology and Climatology.

Knaff, J.A., P. J. Fitzpatrick, C.R. Sampson, Y. Jin, and C.M. Hill, 2011: Simple Diagnosis of Tropical Cyclone Structure via Pressure Gradients. Weather and Forecasting.

Miller, S., C. Schmidt, T. Schmit, D.W. Hillger, 2011: A Case for Natural Colour Imagery from Geostationary Satellites, and an Approximation for the GOES-R ABI. International Journal of Remote Sensing.

Sampson, C.R., J. Kaplan, J.A. Knaff, M. DeMaria, and C. Sisko, 2011: A deterministic rapid intensification aid. Weather and Forecasting.

Setvak, M., D.T. Lindsey, R.M. Rabin, P.K. Wang, and A. Demeterova, 2011:  Possible moisture plume above a deep convective storm on 28 June 2005 in MSG-1 imagery. Weather Review .

Setvák, M., M. Radová, P. Novák, D.T. Lindsey, L. Grasso, P. K. Wang, Shih-Hao Su, R. M. Rabin, J. Kerkmann, J. Šťástka, Z. Charvát, and H. Kyznarová, 2011: Convective storms with a cold-ring shaped cloud top feature. Atmos. Research.

Zupanski, D., M. Zupanski, L. Grasso, R. Brummer, I. Jankov, D. Lindsey, M. Sengupta and M. DeMaria, 2011: Assimilating synthetic GOES-R radiances in cloudy conditions using an ensemble-based method.  International Journal of Remote Sensing.  In Press.

• Nonrefereed

Submitted:

• Refereed 

Grasso, L.D., D.W. Hillger, M. Sengupta, 2011:  Demonstrating the Utility of the GOES-R 2.25 µm band for Fire Retrieval. Geophysical Research Letters.

Lazzara, M.A., S.A. Ackerman, and D.W. Hillger, 2011: Detecting Fog over Antarctia from Satellite. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology.

Van Cleave, D., J.F. Dostalek, and T. Vonder Haar, 2011: The Dynamics and Snowfall Characteristics of Three Types of Extratropical Cyclone Comma Heads Categorized by Infrared Satellite Imagery. Weather and Forecasting.

Vigh, J.L, J.A. Knaff, W.H. Schubert, 2011:  A climatology of hurricane eye formation.  Mon. Wea. Rev.

• Nonrefereed      

Awards and Citations:

Presentations:

J. Knaff gave two talks at the HFIP Observation workshop in Miami: “Satellite Observations of Tropical Cyclones: Currently and Soon Available” and “An Overview of Observational Needs of the HFIP Applications Development and Diagnostics (ADD) Team, May 10-13.

A presentation discussing the satellite-based differences between Tropical Cyclone Larry (2006) and Tropical Cyclone Yasi (2011), both which made landfall in Queensland, Australia between Cairns and Townsville, was provided to J. Davidson (Australian Bureau of Meteorology).   This information will be considered in the official Tropical Cyclone Report on TC Yasi, which is currently being prepared.  (J. Knaff)

J. Dostalek gave a presentation entitled “A Global Omega Equation and its Application to Tropical Cyclogenesis.”  The informal talk was given to a Colorado State University Department of Atmospheric Sciences group which meets bi-monthly to discuss aspects of tropical dynamics.  The presentation focused on the application of the global omega equation by comparing the large-scale vertical motion associated with tropical disturbances which eventually underwent genesis, and tropical disturbances which dissipated before reaching the depression stage. 

Several RAMMB and CIRA staff attended the GOES-R Proving Ground meeting, in Boulder, CO, May 17-19. Presentations on CIRA contributions to the proving ground and a summary of the GOES-R Risk Reduction program were given. (M. DeMaria)

J. Dostalek gave a presentation entitled “The Derivation of a Global Omega Equation.”  The informal talk was given to a Colorado State University Department of Atmospheric Sciences group which meets bi-monthly to discuss aspects of atmospheric dynamics.  The presentation was a follow-up to a talk given last week which focused on the results of the application of the equation to tropical cyclogenesis. This talk covered the basics of the derivation of the global omega equation used in the analysis of tropical disturbances discussed in the previous talk.

B. Connell attended the NOAA Satellite Direct Readout Conference in Miami April 4-8.  She gave two presentations on “CIRA Proving Ground Activities” and “Satellite Training Activities: VISIT, SHyMet, and WMO VLab Focus Group.” This conference provided ample opportunity to interact with the international community on training related activities.

B. Connell attended the GOES-R Proving Ground Annual meeting/workshop held at COMET in Boulder, CO 17-19 May.  She led the Training/User Readiness Breakout Session on the 3rd morning.

B.H. Connell, Brummer, R.L., Miller, S.D., DeMaria, M., Knaff, J.A., Kidder, S., Bikos, D., Braun, J., Micke, K., Lindsey, D.T, Hillger, D., 2011: Satellite Training Activities: VISIT, SHyMet, and WMO VLab Focus Group, 2011 Satellite Direct Readout Conference, Miami, FL. 4-8 April.

B.H. Connell, Bikos, D., Braun, J., Bachmeier, S., Lindstrom, S., Davison, M., Mostek, A., Caesar, K.-A., Castro, V., 2011: CIRA Proving Ground Activities, 2011 Satellite Direct Readout Conference, Miami, FL. 4-8 April. 

On Friday 20 May, Luciane Veeck the WMO VLab technical support officer visited CIRA to discuss VLab activities.  She had attended the GOES-R Proving Ground meeting in Boulder as well.

Darren Van Cleave of the NWSFO in Rapid City, SD, visited CIRA on 31 March to discuss the joint research being done to explain the different cloud patterns seen in mid-latitude cyclones (see entry in Mesoscale Research, Current Product Development).  Van Cleave completed his Master’s Degree from Colorado State University in 2009. (J. Dostalek)

Kathy-Ann Caesar, with the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), visited CIRA on 30 March.  CIMH is one of the WMO designated Regional Meteorological Training Centers of Excellence (RMTCoE).  Ms. Caesar is also a current Co-Chair of the WMO Virtual Laboratory Management Group.  Developments for the Virtual International Focus Group briefings were reviewed as well as collaborations on materials and content for a forecaster aviation course. (B. Connell)

USA Today Article on Gulf of Mexico Tropical Cyclones: M. DeMaria contributed to an article that appeared on page 3 of the USA Today on May 31, 2011. The article reported on a recent publication regarding the behavior of Gulf of Mexico hurricanes, where both strong and weak hurricanes tend to approach borderline category 2-3 intensity as they approach the north Gulf Coast. This behavior was explained by the gradients in the oceanic heat content determined from satellite altimetry analyses, and the results have implications for operational forecasts. The article is available on-line at
http://www.usatoday.com/weather/storms/hurricanes/2011-05-31-hurricanes-gulf-of-mexico-study_n.htm

M. DeMaria served on the search committee for a new position at CICS for a GOES-R Proving Ground focal point with the NCEP Ocean Prediction Center, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and the NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch.

M. DeMaria served on the committee to review the proposals in response to a request for proposals to provide the training services for the National Weather Service and NESDIS formally provided by COMET in Boulder.

M. DeMaria attended the Proving Ground Executive Board meeting the week of May 17-19.

A ribbon cutting and tour of the expanded solar plant at Colorado State University’s foothills campus was held on 21 April 2011 as part of Earth Week.  At 5.3 MW, the plant is one of the largest photovoltaic systems associated with a major university.  The solar plant started as a 2 MW facility in 2009, but was expanded to the current size in 2010.  The solar plant supplies 30% of the energy used by CSU’s foothills campus, where CIRA and a number of other research facilities reside.  The solar plant is integral to one of CIRA’s solar energy proposals.  For more information http://www.green.colostate.edu/solar-2011.aspx  (D. Hillger)

D. Hillger completed the 2011 Annual Information Security Awareness Training Course required for access to NASA computers, as JPSS Imagery Applications Team Leader. 

C. Combs attended CSU training sessions in chairing and being a committee member of Search Committees, and on how to use the new AED in the building.  Also attended was a free MATLAB seminar in Longmont on analysis and visualization of scientific and engineering data.

A briefing was provided to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasters via gotoMeeting and teleconference describing recent upgrades to their operational statistical intensity models and wind speed probability program developed by RAMMB. A recorded version was also generated for forecasters that were not able to attend. A new capability to automatically classify storms as tropical, sub-tropical, or extra-tropical was added this year, which was developed under GIMPAP support. The algorithm uses cloud top information from GOES in combination with model forecasts and ocean analyses in a three class discriminant analysis algorithm. Experimental products as part of the 2011 GOES-R Proving Ground, Joint Hurricane Testbed and Hurricane Forecast Improvement Project were also summarized. A recorded version of the presentation is available from http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/visit/june22_briefing/ (M. DeMaria, A. Schumacher, R. DeMaria, J. Knaff)