Application of post‐processing tools to improve visualisation and quality of numerical short‐range predictions over Central Europe

Abstract

AbstractIn an attempt to improve short‐range weather predictions in Central Europe, a research project was carried out in Austria which involves adapting the WELS weather prediction system to the Central European environment. This PC‐based system is currently in operational use in parts of the United States, chiefly in support of winter highway maintenance operations. The system rests upon the concept of hybrid modelling: an independent, grid‐based mesoscale forecast model, integrating the full set of prognostic equations, delivers a prediction which can, in combination with topographic properties, be visualised by a Graphical User Interface (GUI). This post‐processing tool seems to have a promising future, especially because it includes the opportunity of adjusting the output of the prediction model; also, locally generated observations can be incorporated into the forecasting process. The use of the forecast‐manipulation facilities is appropriate if the prediction seems to be off‐track; the time‐consuming rerun of the entire forecast model in the case of derailing predictions can be avoided. Copyright © 1997 Royal Meteorological Society