On the development of a single repository for surface meteorological observations during tropical events

Weatherflow completed the deployment of a 100 site hardened coastal mesonet in 2009, funded by private sector interests. This project has helped redefine the traditional methods in which observing assets are deployed and redefined methods in which observing assets are maintained (funded). As a result of these developments, private sector meteorology companies are emerging with business models as data providers, while other private companies are expanding their suite of niche-based value-add products by using these new data sources. Weatherflow has extensive experience in ingesting, describing, archiving, and disseminating data from numerous providers. But of even greater value to the objectives of this project, cataloging data allows Weatherflow to tap the collective expertise of targeted intellect required to optimize use of meteorological data for niche applications. This presentation will illustrate the value of this system for those looking to contribute and access data from tropical systems that goes beyond simple data requests. In particular, WeatherFlow's relationship with leading expert data providers such as Dr. Forrest Masters at the University of Florida, yield an overall higher quality product due to advanced qc/qa procedures, innovative metadata parameters, and unique collection and dissemination techniques. Examples of each will be given along examples of how this system has “viral” growth potential as a Weather-based repository poised to be integral component of earth-system engineering disciplines.