Use of Smart Tools in GFESuite to Forecast the North and Central Georgia Ice Storm of 28–30 January 2005

GFESuite remains an essential component of the National Weather Service Interactive Forecast Preparation System (IFPS) and the use of GFESuite continues to evolve at Weather Forecast Offices (WFO). Smart Tools are now used much more than direct editing tools in order to precisely manipulate forecast grids and to maintain balance between elements within the forecast database. As accuracy and resolution of numerical and statistical model output continues, the trend toward using Smart Tools will continue.

This paper will present the design and use of a Smart Tool that forecasts precipitation type and intensity and maintains consistency with other forecast elements in the context of the 28-30 January 2005 Ice Storm which significantly impacted North Georgia and the Atlanta Metropolitan area.