Verifying Transport and Dispersion Model Output of Fires Using Radar Data

At the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Technical Reachback Division, Subject Matter Experts provide 24/7 Chemical, Biological, Nuclear, and high Explosives (CBRNE) decision support for planning, operations, and post event analysis. The main tool for these analyses is the Hazard Prediction and Assessment Capability (HPAC) model, which incorporates an atmospheric transport and dispersion model. As with any transport and dispersion model various weather model input, terrain resolution, and urban modeling can produce differing results on the output plume direction, height, and concentration which have significant impacts in decision making. In addition to CBRNE modelling, HPAC can also estimate the release of hazardous materials due to biomass burning, building fires, and warehouse fires. Because radar data can capture lofted debris during fires, radar data can be leveraged to support model output as well as determining the most ideal weather models, terrain, and urban options to use operationally.