Links: Models & Technical Discussion

This page contains links to computer simulations of the atmosphere used by meteorologists to forecast the weather. It also includes technical discussions. Understanding the content of these links would be aided through self-study or by taking some classes in meteorology.

MODELS

For an overview on interpreting computer models, see:

WeatherPrediction.net -and/or- The UniSys Model Interpretation Guide . If you have some background in meteorology, you might consider taking the online Model Fundamentals course offered by the Cooperative Program for Online Meteorology, Education and Training (COMET).

This is not an exhaustive list of models, but the most frequently referenced. If you want more comprehensive listings, try the model tables at WeatherLinkHub and the Penn State E-wall.

TheWeatherGun.com and WxForecaster.com provide excellent interfaces for generating loops and comparing models.

US Models

Model	Best Site	Why?	Other Sites
NAM	NCEP	- Fast: 0z run complete around 10:15 EST - 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 hr cumulative precip	NexLab: NexLab has nice Java animations as well as thermodynamic/severe wx diagnostics. Univ. of Wisc has reliable, clean graphics. Usually fast.
GFS/AVN	NCEP	- Goes out 16 days - Fast with four daily runs	Univ. of Wisc.

European/Canadian Models

Model	Best Site	Why?	Backup Sites
ECMWF	NexLab	- Most data and nicest graphics	Unisys: Limited information.
UKMET	NexLab	- Reliable	Univ. of Wyoming : Graphics aren't great but you can choose the levels and contour variables you want to display/loop
GEM	Canada Wx Office	- Reliable

Gridded Model Data, from Texas A&M.;

Model Soundings, from Plymouth University.

Ensemble Prediction System Graphics - North America from NOAA's National Center for Environmental Prediction

Models for tropical cyclone forecasting from Penn State. See also Tropical E-wall from Penn State.

TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS

• DC Area (VA/DC/MD) Forecast Discussion -- National Weather Service
• Southeast Virginia Area Forecast Discussion -- National Weather Service
• Southwest Virginia Area Forecast Discussion -- National Weather Service
• Philadelphia Area Forecast Discussion -- National Weather Service
• NCEP Discussions -- Short range, extended, precipitation forecast and heavy snowfall discussions.
• Convective Outlooks and Mesoscale Discussions -- Storm Prediction Center
• Tropical Prediction Center Discussions