The use of radar altimeter data to diagnose wave model initialization and improve short term wave height forecasting

The NCEP/Ocean Prediction Center's (OPC) primary responsibility is the issuance of marine warnings, forecasts, and guidance in both text and graphical formats for maritime users over the Atlantic and Pacific marine areas extending from 20°N to 67°N for purposes of protection of life and property, safety at sea, and the enhancement of economic opportunity. Real-time operational Jason-1, Jason-2, and Envisat radar altimeter data became available to OPC marine forecasters in June 2007. The altimeter-derived data are an essential tool in evaluating NOAA Wavewatch III and ECMWF wave model initializations of significant wave height. Visualization techniques developed at OPC which allow forecasters to rapidly identify initial deficiencies in the wave models will be presented, along with examples that resulted in improved OPC significant wave height forecasts. Recently, the Optimal Interpolation (OI) Significant Wave Height Analysis product has been developed at OPC. This gridded analysis incorporates altimeter, buoy, and ship observations and allows forecasters to efficiently quality control the data which is included in the automated analysis. The addition of altimeter-derived significant wave height observations to the OI has led to improved analyses, even given the somewhat limited areal and temporal availability of the data.