Extended Abstract (1.3M)P1.31
Regional and seasonal climatologies of meteorological surface parameters as derived from METARs
Cory A. Wolff, NCAR, Boulder, CO; and R. Sharman
Climatologies of surface parameters from Aviation Routine Weather Reports (METARs) recorded by Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) stations across the continental United States is presented. Archived surface data going back to 1982 were examined. The parameters included in this study are wind information (direction, speed, and gust), and visibility. In addition, the wind data are compared to turbulence pilot reports (PIREPs) below 5000 ft. MSL to determine if there is a linkage between surface observations and low-level turbulence. Geographical and seasonal climatologies of the surface parameters are derived and presented. Regional distributions of wind information highlight areas and times when surface observations act as good prognosticators of low-level turbulence. This information may be useful for low-level turbulence avoidance, and may also allow for better strategic planning of surface transportation routes.
Poster Session 1, 19th IIPS Poster Session
Monday, 10 February 2003, 2:30 PM-4:00 PM
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