Transitioning the Surface version of Variational LAPS into FAA Operations

The variational version of the surface analysis (2D) of the Local Analysis and Prediction System (LAPS) is based on the Space and Time Multi-scale Analysis System (STMAS). Based on a multi-year real-time evaluation and collaboration between MIT-LL and GSD, the surface LAPS became an integral part of the Corridor Integrated Weather System (CIWS) 0-2 hr forecast project. As the project matured, a decision was made by the FAA to transition the MIT nowcasting technology, including LAPS, into FAA operations.

In the past several years, GSD prepared and tested the software and assembled the documentation required for the transition to FAA operations. In this presentation the variational version of the surface LAPS will be introduced and examples of its performance demonstrated for aviation and other applications. Examples will include high impact weather cases, demonstrating improved situational awareness for tornadic events from the HWT-13 Environmental Warning Program, as well as an evaluation from the Boise WFO on a grid co-located with the National Digital Forecast Database (NDFD), showing improved wind speed and direction analysis over complex terrain.