GOES Sounder and Cloud Optical-depth Data Impact on variational LAPS Analysis and Forecast

Variational version of Local Analysis and Prediction System (vLAPS) has been running at NWS VLAB system in order to support nowcasting and short range forecasting. Its multi scale analysis capability can take advantages of accurate observation datasets from large and small scales. Its analysis and short-range forecast has been demonstrated at NOAA HWT, HMT and FAA storm boundary detection projects. While its AMSU-A and B data assimilation through CRTM has been demonstrated good improvement, some satellite derived products also show benefits of analysis and forecast, particularly on moisture and cloud analysis. In this presentation, GOES sounder integrated water vapor and cloud optical-depth data are assimilated into vLAPS. The analysis and short range forecast impact is reported. Numerical experiment results are presented.