How Resolution Matters—Winter and Spring Storms in Texas and the Southern Plains

A broadcast meteorologist has an increasing number of tools to choose from when forecasting severe thunderstorms and winter weather. Case studies will look at how model resolution (horizontal, vertical and temporal) changes perceptions and forecast decisions. Texas and the southern Plains see complex storm systems in the winter, which may simultaneously produce snow, ice and severe weather. The southeastern part of the forecaster's viewing area may be experiencing severe weather warnings while the northwestern section may be quickly changing over from snow to ice to rain (or vice versa), making rapid decision-making vitally important. Knowing that the most up-to-date tools are being used will provide confidence to both the forecaster and viewer that the best information is being relayed during a potentially dangerous situation.