The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model: A Force In Meteorological Practice

Since its development in the late ‘90s, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model has become arguably the world's most popular numerical weather prediction model. Uniquely designed to serve both research and operational needs, it has grown to offer a spectrum of options and capabilities for a wide range of applications. It is a truly community model, driven by the developments and contributions of a large and active worldwide user base. WRF sees significant use for operational forecasting, and its research implementations have relentlessly pushed toward finer-scale atmospheric simulation. From its contributions to research, forecasting, educational, and commercial efforts worldwide over the years, the WRF Model has made a significant mark on numerical weather prediction and atmospheric science. Most importantly, WRF has been a major force in the ready application of mesoscale models to becoming a distinct mode of meteorological practice, in both research and weather prediction settings. This talk will present the history of the efforts to create, develop, and support the WRF model; show the factors in WRF’s acceptance and growth; and note the future directions of this unparalleled community tool. The presentation will offer evidence of the unique stature and role of WRF in the recent history of meteorological practice.