Integrating data from meteorological observing networks and implications for optimizing benefits from the Mississippi Mesonet

Throughout the planning and development stages of the Mississippi Mesonet substantial consideration has been given to the complementary roles of the mesonet and other observing networks. Particularly in the early stage of developing the mesonet, greater value has been realized by developing spatial analysis products from similar data observed hourly by multiple networks. The unique capabilities of the mesonet then allow for tracking of short time-scale variations and consideration of parameters not observed by other networks. Challenges have primarily been: 1) developing user interfaces that facilitate evaluation of data either in spatial or temporal dimensions; 2) validation of network and station metadata for evaluation of parameter compatibility (e.g. exposure or height of observations); and 3) variations in data reporting formats. Experience gained so far has helped drive considerations for future development of the mesonet in terms of the conflicting benefits of filling data voids versus network redundancy. For both research and educational purposes, similar data product development has been pursued for other states where observation density is locally high but representativeness is significantly influenced by physiographic forcing. The difficulty of realistic spatial analysis due to widely variable station density is also exemplified by coastal zones.