The Local Analysis and Prediction System (LAPS) analyzes three-dimensional moisture along with other state variables each hour over a multi-state domain centered on Colorado in real time. These analyses routinely initialize local-scale high-resolution models such as the Colorado State University's Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) and NCAR's MM5 (mesoscale model, version 5). The LAPS system has been integrated into the AWIPS system as part of the National Weather Service modernization. Research to expand LAPS capabilities is one avenue toward providing advanced technologies and new innovations to the operational forecaster.

This paper describes a numerical approach incorporating variational techniques to simultaneously analyze satellite radiances, GOES-derived layer precipitable water, GPS total column water, and cloud information. This technique is currently under development with an anticipated LAPS release sometime in late 2001. The theory, progress, and early results will be presented.