Development of Web-Based Forecast and Verification Tools at the WPC

The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) heavily utilizes webpages in the dissemination of forecast and verification products. Over the last few years, a number of new products have been developed through the WPC’s Development and Training Branch (DTB) to analyze, verify, and communicate biases within model data and operational WPC forecasts. In conjunction with these products, new web interfaces have been developed using modern technologies which improve the ability to inspect WPC products through more user-friendly & interactive interfaces.

Two new web pages have been constructed to communicate the verification results of the Mesoscale Precipitation Discussions (MPD) and Excessive Rainfall Outlooks (ERO). These tools allow the WPC forecasters to compare their operational forecasts to an array of verification metrics, such as quantitative precipitation estimates, flash flood guidance, local storm reports, and more. An additional suite of webpages has been developed to display real-time object-based heavy precipitation analyses. The goal of these tools is to assist the forecast process by assessing and communicating uncertainty of high resolution convective allowing models.

These tools mostly display static plots & graphics, however more interactive web map-based displays have also been developed for applicable products. These new interactive interfaces in particular facilitate more in-depth inspection of the data. An overview of these new tools will be presented along with updates about upcoming WPC web development efforts.