Real–time tracking of accidental atmospheric releases: LOSTRAC software

Abstract

The LOSTRAC software is devoted to real–time tracking of accidental atmospheric releases. It allows one to calculate, within a few minutes from the moment when the accident is reported and localised, displacement and diffusion of atmospheric pollution. It also provides short–term evolution forecasting. It should become one of the tools for assisting the authorities in charge of safety operations to take decisions. The core of the software consists of LINCOM and RIMPUFF codes. A data input interface and a results module capable of displaying detailed cartography have been developed around these two codes. The codes were elaborated by the Riso National Laboratory in Denmark, and the dialogue and cartography interfaces were developed at the Centre Scientifique et Technique du Batiment (CSTB). A team at the Dynamique de l'Atmosphere Habitee department at the Laboratoire de Mecanique des Fluides of the Ecole Centrale de Nantes has initiated and supervised the project for both interfaces. Future elaboration will cover all steps of the project from data input to the development of a short–term forecasting tool and to data setup, fitted for the software. The creation of a meteorological data management module is planned as priority.